MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Pleural effusions that are due to malignancy are either malignant pleural effusions (MPE) or paramalignant pleural effusions (PMPE). MPEs are diagnosed by the presence of malignant cells in the pleural fluid or tissue.

Detailed explanation-2: -Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is an exudative effusion with malignant cells. MPE is a common symptom and accompanying manifestation of metastatic disease. It affects up to 15% of all patients with cancer and is the most common in lung, breast cancer, lymphoma, gynecological malignancies and malignant mesothelioma.

Detailed explanation-3: -Most MPEs are exudative. Around 3-5% malignant pleural effusion can be transudative in nature.

Detailed explanation-4: -Heart failure is the most common cause. Exudative effusion is caused by blocked blood vessels or lymph vessels, inflammation, infection, lung injury, or tumors.

Detailed explanation-5: -Pleural effusion is a frequent complication of advanced malignancy with significant associated morbidity and mortality.