Tx for recurrent pleural effusion includes which of the following?

Tx for recurrent pleural effusion includes which of the following?

• A. Thoracocentesis and chemical pleurodesis
• B. Pleural drainage only
• C. Antibiotics only
• D. Observation

Answer: (A)

Managing a recurrent pleural effusion aims to relieve symptoms now and prevent it from coming back. Draining the fluid provides immediate relief, but recurrence is common if nothing else is done. Simply giving antibiotics isn’t appropriate unless there’s an infection, and observation won’t stop reaccumulation. Pleurodesis, by introducing a sclerosant, inflames the pleural surfaces so they fuse together and obliterate the pleural space, making future fluid buildup unlikely. Combining drainage with chemical pleurodesis addresses both immediate effort and long-term prevention, which is why this approach is the best choice.

Managing a recurrent pleural effusion aims to relieve symptoms now and prevent it from coming back. Draining the fluid provides immediate relief, but recurrence is common if nothing else is done. Simply giving antibiotics isn’t appropriate unless there’s an infection, and observation won’t stop reaccumulation. Pleurodesis, by introducing a sclerosant, inflames the pleural surfaces so they fuse together and obliterate the pleural space, making future fluid buildup unlikely. Combining drainage with chemical pleurodesis addresses both immediate effort and long-term prevention, which is why this approach is the best choice.