10 Causes of Pleural Effusion
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
Cause #5: Cancer
Cancer is the abnormal growth of cells, and such growths can spread and begin to take over the body. It can affect any types of cells and the effect can be devastating, often posing a very real threat to the patient’s life. While we are advancing in our ability to treat cancers, many cases still result in fatalities.
Cancer can also develop in the lungs and is one of the most common causes of pleural effusion. It can be particularly difficult to treat. Surgery is often required and even a successful removal of the cancer can leave the patient with breathing difficulties, including continued effusion.
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