Final answer:
Pleural effusion is the accumulation of excess fluid in the space between the layers of tissue that line the lungs and chest cavity. It can be caused by various conditions such as pneumonia or heart failure. Treatment options include addressing the underlying cause and draining the fluid.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pleural effusion is the accumulation of excess fluid in the space between the layers of tissue (pleura) that line the lungs and chest cavity. It can be caused by various conditions such as pneumonia, heart failure, kidney failure, or connective tissue abnormalities.
The symptoms of pleural effusion can include difficulty breathing, chest pain, and decreased breath sounds on examination. Diagnosis is typically made through a chest radiograph (X-ray) which will show the presence of fluid in the pleural space.
The treatment for pleural effusion depends on the underlying cause. It may include addressing the underlying condition, draining the fluid through procedures like thoracentesis or chest tube insertion, and medication management.