Lymphocyte predominant exudative pleural effusions: a narrative review

Abstract

Background and Objective: An estimated 1.5 million people develop pleural effusion each year in the United States. Although substantial progress has been made in understanding pleural effusion, establishment of a definite diagnosis usually necessitates thoracentesis with pleural fluid analysis. Lymphocyte predominant pleural effusion is defined as an exudative effusion with lymphocytes over 50% of the total white cell count. The purpose of this review article is to elaborate on the different causes of lymphocyte predominant pleural effusion and the unique biochemical and cellular characteristics of pleural fluid in these conditions.