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Management of Malignant Pleural Effusion

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Lung Cancer

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Abstract

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common complication of advanced malignancy associated with high morbidity, mortality, and cost of care. The incidence of MPE is expected to rise with increasing global cancer rates, and optimal management will remain a chief concern for all practitioners involved in the care of patients with cancer. The management of MPE has advanced considerably in recent years in light of several high-quality randomized controlled trials and patient-centered focused clinical practice guidelines. Both indwelling pleural catheters and chemical pleurodesis are effective at improving symptoms. MPE, however, is a heterogenous disease, and multidisciplinary discussions centering on palliation and patient preferences remain the foundation of management. This chapter will comprehensively review the best evidence for diagnostic techniques and management options within MPE and highlight areas of ongoing research.

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DeMarco, B., MacRosty, C.R. (2023). Management of Malignant Pleural Effusion. In: MacRosty, C.R., Rivera, M.P. (eds) Lung Cancer. Respiratory Medicine. Humana, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-38412-7_10

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