Thoroughly updated for its Fifth Edition, Dr. Light's classic text provides a focused, single-authored perspective on the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management of pleural diseases. This edition has three new chapters on physiological effects of a pneumothorax or pleural effusion, animal models in pleural investigation, and cytokines and the pleura. Other chapters present significant updates on use of thoracoscopy in diagnosis of pleural effusions and on new diagnostic tests for mesothelioma, parapneumonic effusion, and effusions due to congestive heart failure. Also included are discussions of recent advances in the therapy of malignant pleural effusions, mesothelioma, and parapneumonic effusions.

Anatomy of the Pleura

Physiology of the Pleural Space

Physiological Effects of Pneumothorax and Pleural Effusion

Animal Models in Pleural Investigation

Cytokines and the Pleura

Radiographic Examinations

Clinical Manifestations and Useful Tests

Approach to the Patient

Transudative Pleural Effusions

Pleural Effusions Related to Metastatic Malignancies

Primary Tumors of the Pleura

Parapneumonic Effusions and Empyema

Tuberculous Pleural Effusions

Pleural Effusion Secondary to Fungal Infections, Actinomycosis, and Nocardiosis

Pleural Effusion Due to Parasitic Infection

Pleural Effusion Due to the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Other Viruses, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Rickettsiae

Pleural Effusion Due to Pulmonary Embolization

Pleural Effusion Secondary to Diseases of the Gastrointestinal Tract

Pleural Effusion Secondary to Diseases of the Heart

Pleural Disease in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Pleural Disease Due to Collagen Vascular Diseases

Pleural Effusion Due to Drug Reactions

Pleural Effusion Due to Miscellaneous Diseases

Pneumothorax

Hemothorax

Chylothorax and Pseudochylothorax

Other Pleural Diseases

Thoracentesis (Diagnostic and Therapeutic) and Pleural Biopsy

Chest Tubes

Thoracoscopy