Drainage of multiloculated tuberculous pleural effusion by medical thoracoscopy: When and why should it be considered?
- Author:
Sze Shyang KHO
1
;
Swee Kim CHAN
;
Mei Ching YONG
;
Siew Teck TIE
Author Information
1. Respiratory Medicine Unit, Sarawak General Hospital, Jalan Hospital, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
- Publication Type:Case report
- From:
The Medical Journal of Malaysia
2018;73(1):49-50
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Tuberculous pleural effusion (TBE) is a common encounterin our region. Up to 50% of patients with TBE will developresidual pleural thickening (RPT) which can lead tofunctional impairment. However, the need of drainageremains controversial. We report a case of end-stage renalfailure patient who presented with right multiloculatedtuberculous pleural effusion which was drained via amedical thoracoscope. Patient reports immediate relief ofbreathlessness post procedure and one month follow upshown significant improvement of RPT. We also discussedthe current perspective on the rationale of TBE drainage andthe role of medical thoracoscope in TBE management.
