malignant pleural effusion
Accumulation of fluid in the pleural space caused by cancer, indicating advanced disease stage.
Full Definition
Malignant pleural effusion occurs when cancer cells invade the pleura or metastasize to pleural surfaces, causing fluid accumulation in the pleural space. In thoracic oncology, this finding indicates T4 disease for lung cancer or M1a disease if the effusion is on the contralateral side, significantly affecting staging and prognosis. The effusion may result from pleural metastases, impaired lymphatic drainage, or increased vascular permeability. Diagnosis is confirmed through pleural fluid cytology demonstrating malignant cells or pleural biopsy showing metastatic disease. Management focuses on symptom palliation through thoracentesis, pleurodesis, or indwelling pleural catheter placement. The presence of malignant pleural effusion generally indicates inoperability for curative surgical resection.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from pleural effusion of other etiologies; specify staging implications.
In Context
- "Cytology of the pleural fluid confirmed malignant pleural effusion with adenocarcinoma cells." — Pathology report
- "The presence of malignant pleural effusion upstaged the patient to T4N0M0 disease." — Staging note