Abstract
To find the simplest method for quantifying pleural effusion volume from CT scans. Seventy pleural effusions found on chest CT examination in 50 consecutive adult patients with the presence of free pleural effusion were included. The volume of pleural effusion was calculated from a three-dimensional reconstruction of CT scans. Planar measurements were made on CT scans and their two-dimensional reconstructions in the sagittal plane and at three levels on transversal scans. Individual planar measurements were statistically compared with the detected volume of pleural effusion. Regression equations, averaged absolute difference between observed and predicted values and determination coefficients were found for all measurements and their combinations. A tabular expression of the best single planar measurement was created. The most accurate correlation between the volume and a single planar measurement was found in the dimension measured perpendicular to the parietal pleura on transversal scan with the greatest depth of effusion. Conversion of this measurement to the appropriate volume is possible by regression equation: Volume = 0.365 × b(3) - 4.529 × b(2) + 159.723 × b - 88.377. We devised a simple method of conversion of a single planar measurement on CT scan to the volume of pleural effusion. The tabular expression of our equation can be easily and effectively used in routine practice.
Highlights
Pleural fluid is physiologically present in the pleural cavity of humans[1,2]
Pleurocentesis provides relief from dyspnoea; in addition to the clinical condition, quantification of pleural effusion amount is of major importance for patient management
Pleural effusion is visible on the posteroanterior projection as a meniscus at about 200 mL and will obliterate the hemidiaphragm at approximately 500 mL
Summary
Its mean unilateral volume is 8.4 ± 4.3 mL (ref.[3]). Increasing fluid amount increases lung capillary pressure and reduces lung compliance, which leads to difficult breathing and patient dyspnoea[4]. Pleurocentesis provides relief from dyspnoea; in addition to the clinical condition, quantification of pleural effusion amount is of major importance for patient management. The first and typical method is posteroanterior chest radiograph. Pleural effusion is visible on the posteroanterior projection as a meniscus at about 200 mL and will obliterate the hemidiaphragm at approximately 500 mL (ref.[5]). Effusions lower than 200 mL are detectable only when a lateral chest radiograph is taken – pleural effusion becomes visible at approximately 50 mL as a meniscus in the posterior costophrenic sulcus[5]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
