Abstract
Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) represents advanced metastatic malignancy and is
associated with poor median survival. Incidence remains high and continues to rise,
in part due to changing population demographics. This therefore represents a significant
health care burden. Management is predominantly palliative in nature and multiple
interventions are available within conventional treatment paradigms, all of which
are proven to result in statistically significant patient benefit. This article further
explores the methods available in the management of MPE along with the pitfalls, complications,
and alternatives. Recent advances within the field are discussed with an exploration
of likely future directions, including the role of ultrasound as a prospective predictor
and the role of intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy.
Keywords
malignant pleural effusion - talc pleurodesis - indwelling pleural catheter - palliative
- care - unexpandable lung - autopleurodesis - thoracic ultrasound
