Fluid may build up in the pleural space around the lung. One common underlying cause of this fluid collection is chest infection, which may occur as a result of illnesses such as pneumonia.
Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, and lethargy.
It is normally diagnosed through chest X-ray and CT scan.
The fluid may be drained or sampled for further testing. Blood tests will also be done.
During surgery, the inside of the pleural cavity is washed and cleaned thoroughly to remove all the fluid and infected material from the chest, and to help the lungs to heal.
Click here to access our Find A Doctor directory for a list of doctors treating this condition across our NUHS institutions.
