Term: Pleural Effusion
Definition: Pleural effusion is the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, the thin cavity between the lungs and the chest wall, which can cause symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and coughing.
Phonetic Pronunciation: (PLUR-uhl eh-FYOO-zhun)
Etymological Origin: The term originates from the Latin word pleura (referring to the membrane surrounding the lungs) and the Latin word effusio (a pouring out), derived from effundere (to pour out). It has been used in medical terminology since the 17th century to describe fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity.
Significance in Asbestos Context: Pleural effusion is a significant clinical finding in individuals exposed to asbestos. It can be a symptom of asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, or lung cancer. In some cases, pleural effusion may be benign but still related to asbestos exposure, known as benign asbestos pleural effusion (BAPE). The presence of pleural effusion often prompts further investigation to rule out malignancy, making it a critical factor in both medical diagnosis and asbestos-related litigation.
Synonyms or Related Terms: Fluid in the lungs, pleural fluid accumulation, hydrothorax.
Example Sentence: "The patient’s pleural effusion was determined to be caused by prolonged asbestos exposure, raising concerns about potential mesothelioma."
Common Misconceptions:
