Effusion (Fluid in Pleural Space)
In an erect film there is loss of the costophrenic angle with dense shadowing extending a variable distance up the lung. The lateral part is higher, creating the meniscus appearance. On supine films posterior pooling of fluid gives a less specific haziness to the lung field.
Click on the x-rays to enlarge.
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| Fig 1: Right effusion | Fig 2: Left effusion |
What are the different types of effusion?
The different types are:
- Transudates – protein concentration <30g/L
Due to: Cardiac failure, constrictive pericarditis, fluid overload, nephrotic syndrome, liver failure, Meigs’ syndrome
- Exudates – protein content >30g/L
Due to: Pneumonia, TB, pulmonary embolism (PE), lung cancer, mesothelioma, pancreatitis, connective tissue disease
- Blood i.e. haemothorax in trauma
- Pus i.e. empyema