From the Research
Pleural effusion in lung cancer occurs when cancer cells invade the pleural space, causing fluid to accumulate between the layers of the pleura, and the most effective treatment approach is to prioritize palliative care, focusing on symptom management and quality of life, as indicated by the most recent study 1. The development of pleural effusion in lung cancer is a complex process, involving multiple mechanisms, including:
- Direct spread of cancer cells to the pleura, leading to increased fluid production
- Blockage of lymphatic vessels, resulting in fluid buildup
- Release of inflammatory substances, increasing blood vessel permeability and fluid leakage
- Obstruction of blood vessels, causing increased pressure and fluid leakage Symptoms of pleural effusion include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Dry cough Treatment options for pleural effusion in lung cancer include:
- Thoracentesis, to drain the fluid
- Pleurodesis, to adhere the pleural layers together
- Placement of an indwelling pleural catheter
- Treatment of the underlying cancer with therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation According to the most recent study 1, hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy and talc pleurodesis are equally effective and safe therapeutic options for treating patients with malignant pleural effusion and non-small cell lung cancer, with a median overall survival of 8-9 months. It is essential to prioritize palliative care and focus on symptom management and quality of life, as the primary goal of treatment is to improve the patient's overall well-being and reduce suffering, as emphasized by the study 1.