An unusual case of pleural effusion: Hard to diagnose and harder to manage

Pleural disease is one of the common respiratory condition affecting ∼3000 people per million population yearly. Pleural effusion has several fundamental aetiological conditions and therefore needs a systematic assessment to reach a concluding diagnosis. In spite of accurate evaluation, there may be situations, where the aetiology of a pleural effusion remains unknown. Various professionals have suggested a step-wise path in the management of these undiagnosed pleural effusions. The role of detailed history, suitable clinical examination and appropriate investigations, including Computed Tomography (CT) of chest and pleural biopsy, in an experiment to approve the correct cause of pleural effusion cannot be over emphasized. We present an engaging case of pleural effusion that was managed at our institute.

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