What role does pleural effusion play in respiratory issues for cancer patients?
Pleural effusion is a condition where excess fluid builds up between the layers of the pleura, the membrane surrounding the lungs. This accumulation can be due to cancer spreading to the pleura or as a result of inflammation from treatments. Pleural effusions can cause severe dyspnea because the fluid compresses the lung, reducing its capacity to expand. Treatments may involve thoracentesis, where the fluid is drained, or more permanent solutions like pleurodesis.
