For a malignant pleural effusion, what procedure is the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment?

For a malignant pleural effusion, what procedure is the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment?

• A. Pleurodesis
• B. Thoracentesis
• C. Chest tube drainage
• D. Thoracoscopy

Answer: (B)

Sampling the pleural fluid with thoracentesis is the primary way to diagnose and immediately manage a malignant pleural effusion. Analyzing the fluid for malignant cells confirms the diagnosis, while removing fluid often relieves dyspnea and improves comfort. If cytology is nondiagnostic or suspicion remains high, tissue diagnosis with thoracoscopy and pleural biopsy is more sensitive. For ongoing management, options like pleurodesis or an indwelling pleural catheter help prevent reaccumulation.

Sampling the pleural fluid with thoracentesis is the primary way to diagnose and immediately manage a malignant pleural effusion. Analyzing the fluid for malignant cells confirms the diagnosis, while removing fluid often relieves dyspnea and improves comfort. If cytology is nondiagnostic or suspicion remains high, tissue diagnosis with thoracoscopy and pleural biopsy is more sensitive. For ongoing management, options like pleurodesis or an indwelling pleural catheter help prevent reaccumulation.