Pleural Disease Management
Conditions We Manage
01. Pleural Disease Treatment
- Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung): Immediate decompression and lung re-expansion through image-guided chest tube placement or chemical pleurodesis for recurrent cases.
- Pleural Effusion: Ultrasound-guided thoracentesis and thoracoscopy for fluid drainage, diagnosis, and long-term management.
- Empyema (Infected Pleural Space): Rapid evacuation of pus, microbiological analysis, and chest tube insertion—combined with aggressive antibiotic therapy.
02. Pleural Effusion (Fluid Accumulation in the Lungs) Evaluation and Treatment
- Diagnostic Thoracentesis: A minimally invasive procedure to remove pleural fluid for analysis, aiding in the diagnosis of the underlying condition.
- Pleural Fluid Analysis (Cytology, ADA, Biochemical Markers): Detailed analysis of the fluid, including cytology for cellular evaluation and biochemical markers to help identify the cause.
- Ultrasound and CT-Guided Drainage: Advanced imaging techniques to guide the drainage procedure, ensuring precise fluid removal.
- Root Cause Identification and Targeted Treatment: Once the cause of the effusion is identified, we provide personalized treatment plans, addressing the root condition to prevent recurrence.
03. Pleural Infections
- Precise Diagnostic Imaging: Using chest X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasound to detect infection and inflammation in the pleura.
- Pleural Fluid Culture and Sensitivity: Precise microbiological analysis of pleural fluid to identify causative pathogens and guide targeted antibiotic therapy.
- Tailored Antibiotic Therapy: Administering appropriate antibiotics based on infection type, guided by fluid culture results, to treat the infection and prevent further damage.
- Drainage Procedures: In cases of significant fluid buildup, we perform safe and effective drainage to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
04. Cancer Cells in Pleural Fluid
- Cytological Examination: Thorough examination of pleural fluid to identify cancer cells, determining the extent of malignancy.
- Biopsy and Molecular Testing: If required, we perform pleural biopsy and molecular tests to guide targeted cancer therapy and improve treatment outcomes.
- Multidisciplinary Care Approach: Collaborating with oncologists to develop a comprehensive treatment plan, which includes chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or surgical interventions.
- Ongoing Monitoring and Support: Ensuring ongoing monitoring of treatment progress, addressing any side effects, and delivering supportive care to enhance overall quality of life.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Kishan Srikanth for Pulmonary Disease Management
- Expertise: Renowned Pulmonologist in Hyderabad specializing in complex lung conditions like pleural effusion and interstitial lung diseases.
- Advanced Diagnostics: Utilizes state-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatments.
- Minimally Invasive: Offers cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures for quicker recovery.
- Patient-Centered Care: Personalized treatment plans with a compassionate approach.
- Reputation: Trusted by patients across India for his clinical excellence.
- Collaborative Care: Works with multidisciplinary teams for comprehensive pulmonary health.
- Long-Term Wellness: Focused on both immediate relief and ongoing lung health.
When Should You See a Lung Specialist?
Your lungs are essential to your health, and any signs of respiratory distress should never be overlooked. If you’re dealing with persistent symptoms or have concerns about your lung health, it’s crucial to consult a skilled lung specialist for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.
What is pleural disease, and why is early diagnosis important?
Pleural disease refers to conditions affecting the pleura—the thin membrane surrounding the lungs. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent complications such as respiratory failure, infection, or permanent lung damage.
What are the common symptoms of pleural effusion?
Symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain (especially on deep breathing), dry cough, and reduced exercise tolerance. In some cases, it may be asymptomatic and detected incidentally.
What causes fluid to accumulate in the pleural space?
Pleural effusion can result from heart failure, infections like tuberculosis, malignancies, pulmonary embolism, or autoimmune diseases. Accurate diagnosis requires clinical evaluation and fluid analysis.
How is pleural effusion diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of chest imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, or CT) and thoracentesis—a procedure to withdraw pleural fluid for biochemical, cytological, and microbiological testing.
What is thoracentesis, and is it a painful procedure?
Thoracentesis is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia to remove pleural fluid. It is generally well tolerated and provides both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits.
Can pleural infections be treated with antibiotics alone?
While early-stage infections may respond to antibiotics, complex or loculated infections often require drainage. Image-guided catheter placement or thoracoscopy may be necessary for complete resolution.
What does it mean if cancer cells are found in the pleural fluid?
Malignant pleural effusion indicates cancer involvement of the pleura, commonly seen in lung, breast, or ovarian cancers. Management includes fluid control, symptom relief, and coordination with oncology care.
Is pleural disease reversible?
Many pleural conditions are treatable when addressed early. However, chronic or malignant pleural diseases may require ongoing management to control symptoms and prevent complications.
When should I consult a lung specialist for pleural issues?
You should consult a pulmonologist in Hyderabad or a lung disease expert if you experience unexplained breathlessness or chest discomfort or have recurrent fluid collections noted on imaging.
Why choose Dr. Kishan Srikanth for pleural disease management?
As a DM-certified interventional pulmonologist in Hyderabad, Dr. Srikanth offers advanced diagnostic tools, real-time thoracoscopic evaluation, and evidence-based therapies personalised to your condition, ensuring optimal outcomes.
