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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.

Original publication

DOI

10.1055/s-0038-1676572

Type

Journal article

Journal

Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine

Publication Date

12/2018

Volume

39

Pages

704 - 712

Addresses

Oxford Centre for Respiratory Medicine, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom.