The outcome of patients with pleural effusion of indeterminate cause at thoracotomy.

摘要: In 51 patients, the cause for pleural effusion remained indeterminate immediately after thoracotomy. Thirty-one (60.8%) had no recurrence of effusion, and became apparent during a follow-up period from 1 1/2 to 15 years. Two patients (3.9%) died relatively soon thoracotomy, but death was not clearly related effusion. 18 (35.3%), 12 days 6 years 13 these malignancy (6 with lymphoma, 4 malignant mesothelioma, 3 other malignancy) ultimately diagnosed. ultimate diagnosis collagen-vascular disease, patient each yellow-nail syndrome mitral stenosis.