Unilateral Transudative Pleural Effusion due to rare Cause – A Case Report

Abstract

Transudative pleural effusions are characterized by low protein and lactate dehydrogenase according to Light’s criteria. Common causes are congestive cardiac failure, nephrotic syndrome, liver cirrhosis, and protein-losing enteropathy. Constrictive pericarditis is a rare cause of transudative pleural effusion. It can cause bilateral or unilateral recurrent effusions and chylothorax rarely. Common causes of constrictive pericarditis include infections such as viruses and tuberculosis, radiation, and cardiac surgery. We present a treated case of pulmonary tuberculosis presenting with massive, left-sided, and transudative pleural effusion due to constrictive pericarditis diagnosed by computed tomography scan and 2D echo with classical findings. Incidental findings were internal jugular vein thrombus and right lower lobar pulmonary embolus. This case highlights the atypical presentation of constrictive pericarditis as unilateral pleural effusion. A proper history with a high index of suspicion is essential in the workup of constrictive pericarditis which can be cured by pericardiectomy.

Diagnostic Value of Ascitic Fluid Cholesterol Level in Differentiating Malignant Ascites from Non-Malignant Ascites

“…Transudative ascites, with a protein content less than 25 g/L, often results from increased fluid leakage due to elevated intravascular pressure (3,4). This form of ascites is commonly associated with systemic illnesses such as cardiac failure or portal hypertension, often linked to liver cirrhosis (5). Additionally, conditions like nephrotic syndrome or protein-losing enteropathy, which lead to hypoproteinemia, can reduce oncotic pressure, resulting in transudative ascites (6).…”