Objective: To know the diagnostic role of pleural biopsy in determining underlying etiological causes of lymphocytic exudative pleural effusion.
Methods: A total of 74 patients, aged 17 – 79 years with mean age 46 years, of either sex, with lymphocytic exudative pleural effusion underwent closed pleural biopsy with Abram’s needle in standard way. Average 3 biopsy specimens were obtained in each patient, which were examined histopathologically.
Results: Definite histopathological diagnosis on pleural biopsy was possible in 53 (71.62%) patients, including tuberculosis and malignancy, 52.71% and 18.91% respectively.
Conclusion: Pleural biopsy can determine underlying etiological causes of lymphocytic exudative pleural effusion in 71.62 with precision. (Rawal Med J 2004;29:61-64)
Key words: Pleural Biopsy, Exudative Pleural Effusion, Tuberculosis, Mesothelioma
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