Big trouble for this patient. In the thorax.

A case of pain in chest and cough. A common complaint for so many people. But in this case, the person appears to be in deep trouble. Ultrasound imaging was done and showed these findings:

The left chest is the region of interest. 

A large anechoic collection of fluid displacing the left lung 🫁 is obvious. Also obvious is the presence of multiple thin septae or loculations.

It's pretty large in size: 7 cms deep in maximum by 15 cms in vertical height. 

Final diagnosis: left,  large, septate pleural effusion with displacing of left lung 🫁. 

What's this type of pleural effusion? What are the sonographic appearances etc?

Septate pleural effusion is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, which is divided by septations or partitions. Ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that can be used to visualize the pleural effusion and determine its characteristics.

Ultrasound findings of septate pleural effusion include:

Multiple septations seen within the pleural effusion

Septations may appear thickened or calcified

The effusion may be loculated or contained within a specific area

Presence of debris or echogenic material within the effusion

Possible underlying cause, such as infection or malignancy, may also be identified.

Ultrasound is an effective tool in diagnosing septate pleural effusion, and its findings can guide further management and treatment.

What are the different types of pleural effusion?

Transudative pleural effusion: This type of pleural effusion is caused by an imbalance of fluid pressure in the pleural space, often due to conditions like heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or kidney disease.

Exudative pleural effusion: This type of pleural effusion is caused by an inflammatory or infectious process, such as pneumonia, cancer, or tuberculosis.

Hemothorax: This is a type of pleural effusion that occurs when blood accumulates in the pleural space, often due to trauma or injury.

Chylothorax: This is a type of pleural effusion caused by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the pleural space, often due to conditions like lymphoma or trauma.

Empyema: This is a type of pleural effusion that occurs when pus accumulates in the pleural space, often due to a bacterial infection.

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Sonography of pleural effusion