Pleural Effusion

Picture of pleural effusion

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

Pleural effusion occurs when fluid collects in the pleural cavity—the area between the lungs and the chest. Fluid buildup may cause abnormal pressure on the lungs.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerRobert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology
Last RevisedJuly 15, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: July 15, 2011
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Robert L. Cowie, MB, FCP(SA), MD, MSc, MFOM - Pulmonology

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