Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (PET-CT) in suspected malignant pleural effusion. An updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is defined as the presence of malignant cells in pleural fluid or pleural biopsy specimens. Worldwide the most common causes are lung cancer, breast cancer and malignant lymphoma1. MPE incidence is expected to increase as increasing number of person are at risk of disseminated cancer due to rising life expectancy, and more long-term cancer survivors2. A correct diagnosis of MPE is important, as MPE denotes disseminated disease and a poor prognosis with a mean survival of 8 months3.
Source: Lung Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Source Type: research