Baseline predictors of negative and incomplete pleural cytology in patients with suspected pleural malignancy - data supporting ‘direct to lat’ in selected groups

Malignant Pleural Effusion (MPE) is common and often causes incapacitating breathlessness, requiring emergency hospitalization. Although MPE management can usually be generalized, precise tumour sub-typing and molecular profiling is required for treatment planning. [1] Detailed diagnostics also need to be completed quickly, in patients who may be physically debilitated, using the minimum number of invasive tests in combination with active palliation of symptoms. Pleural fluid aspiration (or thoracentesis) is a simple early investigation and allows transudative or infective causes to be identified rapidly.
Source: Lung Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Source Type: research