Pulmonary pleurisy, also known as pleurisy or pleuritis, is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the pleura, the thin membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the inside of the chest cavity. The pleura consists of two layers, the visceral pleura, which covers the lungs, and the parietal pleura, which lines the chest cavity.
Pulmonary pleurisy typically occurs as a result of an infection, such as pneumonia or tuberculosis, or as a complication of another underlying condition, like lung cancer or autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. The inflammation of the pleura causes irritation and friction between the layers, resulting in severe chest pain when breathing, coughing, or moving.
Common symptoms of pulmonary pleurisy include sharp or stabbing chest pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing, shortness of breath, a dry cough, and fever. Diagnosing pulmonary pleurisy usually involves a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests like chest X-rays or CT scans, which can help determine the cause and extent of the inflammation.
Treatment for pulmonary pleurisy typically aims to relieve symptoms and treat the underlying cause. This may involve the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation, antibiotics for infections, or immunosuppressive drugs for autoimmune conditions. In severe cases with large amounts of fluid accumulation in the pleural space, a procedure called thoracentesis may be performed to drain the fluid and provide relief.
Overall, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of pulmonary pleurisy are crucial to minimize complications and enhance the chances of a successful recovery.
