Pleural pro-gastrin releasing peptide is a potential diagnostic marker for malignant pleural effusion induced by small-cell lung cancer.

Background: Serum pro-gastrin releasing peptide (proGRP) is a well-recognized diagnostic marker for small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Pleural effusion is common in patients with advanced SCLC. The diagnostic accuracy of pleural proGRP for malignant pleural effusion (MPE) has not yet been established. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of pleural proGRP for MPE. Methods: We prospectively recruited patients with undiagnosed pleural effusions from two centers (Hohhot and Changshu). An electrochemiluminescence immunoassay was used to detect pleural fluid proGRP. The diagnostic accuracy of proGRP for MPE was evaluated using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: In both the Hohhot (n=153) and Changshu (n=58) cohorts, pleural proGRP in MPE patients did not significantly differ from that in patients with benign pleural effusions (BPEs) (Hohhot, P=0.91; Changshu, P=0.12). In the Hohhot and Changshu cohorts, the areas under the curves (AUCs) of proGRP were 0.51 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.41-0.60] and 0.62 (95% CI: 0.47-0.77), respectively. However, patients with SCLC-induced MPE had significantly higher proGRP levels than those with BPE and other types of MPE (P=0.001 for both). In the pooled cohort, the AUC of proGRP for SCLC-induced MPE was 0.90 (95% CI: 0.78-1.00, P=0.001). At a threshold of 40 pg/mL, proGRP had a sensitivity of 1.00 (95% CI: 0.61-1.00) and specificity of 0.59 (95% CI: 0.52-0.66). The positive likelihood ratio was 2.61 (95% CI: 1.99-3.41), and the negative likelihood ratio was 0. Conclusions: Pleural proGRP has no diagnostic value for MPE, but has high diagnostic accuracy for SCLC-induced MPE. In patients with proGRP levels <40 pg/mL, MPE secondary to SCLC can be excluded.

Tumor markers determination in malignant pleural effusion: pearls and pitfalls.

Serum and pleural fluid tumor markers are well-recognized auxiliary diagnostic tools for malignant pleural effusion (MPE). Here, we discuss some pearls and pitfalls regarding the role of tumor markers in MPE management. The following issues are discussed in this article: What is the appropriate clinical scenario for evaluating pleural tumor markers? Which tumor markers should be advocated for diagnosing MPE? Can extremely high levels of tumor markers be employed to establish a diagnosis of MPE? Does the serum-to-pleural fluid ratio of a tumor marker have the same diagnostic efficacy as the measurement of that marker alone in the pleural fluid? Can tumor markers be used to estimate the risk of specific cancers? What should be considered when interpreting the diagnostic accuracy of tumor markers? How should tumor marker studies be performed? We addressed these issues with published works, particularly systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Pleural effusions identified by thoracic ultrasound predict poor quality of life in patients with acute decompensated heart failure.

INTRODUCTION: Pleural effusion (PE) is a common manifestation of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF); however, its influence on the quality of life (QoL) is unknown. OBJECTIVES: To identify whether PE detected using thoracic ultrasound (TUS) is associated with poorer QoL in patients with ADHF and a reduced ejection fraction (≤40 %). METHODS: We conducted a prospective, longitudinal, descriptive, observational, single-center study at a university hospital in Mexico. We included participants with a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction who were admitted for ADHF. We performed TUS and the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) within the first 48 h of hospitalization. RESULTS: Forty patients with ADHF (30 males and 10 females; mean age, 51.24 ± 16.942 years) were included in this study. The participants were categorized into two groups: those with (n = 25, 62.5 %) or without (n = 15, 37.5 %) PE on TUS. We found a statistically significant association between the presence of PEs and a worse perception of QoL. The mean MLHFQ score in the group of patients with PEs was 40 points, compared to 12 points in the group without PEs (p < 0.001). Poorer QoL was associated with a higher quantity of pleural fluid, as evidenced by the greater number of intercostal spaces occupied by the PE (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with ADHF and a reduced ejection fraction who present with PE have a worse perception of QoL than patients without PE.

Malignant Pleural Effusion: A Multidisciplinary Approach.

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) has become an increasingly prevalent complication in oncological patients, negatively impacting their quality of life and casting a shadow over their prognosis. Owing to the pathophysiological mechanisms involved and the heterogeneous nature of the underlying disease, this entity is both a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Advances in the understanding of MPE have led to a shift in the treatment paradigm towards a more personalized approach. This article provides a comprehensive review and update on the pathophysiology of MPE and describes the diagnostic tools and the latest advances in the treatment of this complex clinical entity.

El derrame pleural maligno (DPM) se ha convertido en una complicación cada vez más prevalente en los pacientes oncológicos, empeorando la calidad de vida y ensombreciendo el pronóstico de los mismos. Debido a los mecanismos fisiopatológicos involucrados y a la naturaleza heterogénea de la enfermedad subyacente, esta entidad representa un desafío diagnóstico y terapéutico. Los avances en la comprensión del DPM han originado un cambio en el paradigma del tratamiento hacia un enfoque más personalizado. Este artículo proporciona una revisión exhaustiva y una actualización sobre la fisiopatología del DPM, y describe las herramientas diagnósticas y los últimos avances en el tratamiento de esta compleja entidad clínica.

DUETS for Light's in separating exudate from transudate.

BACKGROUND: Fifty years since its inception, Light's criteria have aided in classifying pleural effusions (PEs) as exudates if 1 or more criteria are met. Thoracic ultrasound (US) emerges as a non-invasive technique for point of care use especially if pleural procedures are contemplated. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to develop a score based on radiological and US features that could separate exudates from transudates without serum and pleural fluid biochemical tests necessary for Light's criteria. METHODS: A prospective review of consecutive patients with PE who underwent thoracocentesis was performed. CXRs were evaluated for laterality followed by US for echogenicity, pleural nodularity, thickening and septations. PE was classified as exudate or transudate according to Light's criteria and corroborated with albumin gradient. A score combining radiological and US features was developed. RESULTS: We recruited 201 patients with PE requiring thoracocentesis. Mean age was 64 years, 51% were females, 164 (81.6%) were exudates, and 37 (18.4%) were transudates. Assigning 1-point for Diaphragmatic nodularity, Unilateral, Echogenicity, Pleural Thickening and Septations, DUETS ranged from 1 to 5. DUETS ≥2 indicated high likelihood for exudate (PPV 98.8%, NPV 100%) with 1% misclassification versus 6.9% using Light's criteria (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: DUETS separated exudates from transudates with good accuracy, and could obviate paired serum and pleural fluid tests necessary for Light's criteria computation. Our study reflected real world practice where DUETS performed better than Light's criteria for PE that arose from more than one disease processes, and in the evaluation of patients with PE who have received diuretics.

ERS Statement on Benign Pleural Effusions in Adults.

The incidence of non-malignant pleural effusions (NMPE) far outweighs that of malignant pleural effusions (MPE) and is estimated to be at least 3-fold higher. These so called "benign" effusions do not follow a "benign course" in many cases, with mortality rates matching and sometimes exceeding that of MPEs. In addition to the impact on patients, healthcare systems are significantly affected, with recent US epidemiological data demonstrating that 75% of resource allocation for pleural effusion management is spent on NMPEs (excluding empyema). Despite this significant burden of disease, and by existing at the junction of multiple medical specialties, reflecting a heterogenous constellation of medical conditions, NMPEs are rarely the focus of research or the subject of management guidelines. With this ERS Taskforce, we assembled a multi-specialty collaborative across eleven countries and three continents to provide a Statement based on systematic searches of the medical literature to highlight evidence in the management of the following clinical areas: a diagnostic approach to transudative effusions, heart failure, hepatic hydrothorax, end stage renal failure, benign asbestos related pleural effusion, post-surgical effusion and non-specific pleuritis.

Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy: A Focus on Indications, Techniques and Complications.

The main purpose of this narrative review is to educate general practitioners about a crucial pleural procedure, namely local anesthetic thoracoscopy (LAT), and to provide established respiratory physicians with an expert opinion-based summary of the literature. This narrative review focuses on the indications, technical aspects and complications of LAT, highlighting its safety and high degree of diagnostic sensitivity for patients who present with an unexplained pleural effusion and have a high pre-test probability of cancer.

Erratum: Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion.

An erratum was issued for: Local Anesthetic Thoracoscopy for Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion. The Authors section was updated from: Uffe Bodtger1,2 José M. Porcel3 Rahul Bhatnagar4,5 Mohammed Munavvar6,7 Casper Jensen1 Paul Frost Clementsen1,8 Daniel Bech Rasmussen1,2 1Respiratory Research Unit PLUZ, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zealand University Hospital 2Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark 3Pleural Medicine Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova, IRBLleida 4Respiratory Department, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust 5Academic Respiratory Unit, University of Bristol 6Lancashire Teaching Hospitals 7University of Central Lancashire 8Centre for HR and Education, Copenhagen Academy for Medical Education and Simulation to: Uffe Bodtger1,2 José M. Porcel3 Rahul Bhatnagar4,5 Nick Maskell4,5 Mohammed Munavvar6,7 Casper Jensen1 Paul Frost Clementsen1,8 Daniel Bech Rasmussen1,2 1Respiratory Research Unit PLUZ, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Zealand University Hospital 2Institute of Regional Health Research, University of Southern Denmark 3Pleural Medicine Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova, IRBLleida 4Respiratory Department, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust 5Academic Respiratory Unit, University of Bristol 6Lancashire Teaching Hospitals 7University of Central Lancashire 8Centre for HR and Education, Copenhagen Academy for Medical Education and Simulation.

Impact of Pleural Lavage Cytology Positivity on Early Recurrence After Surgery for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to elucidate the impact of pleural lavage cytology positivity on early recurrence in patients operated on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS: This is a multicentre prospective cohort study of 684 patients undergoing an anatomical lung resection for NSCLC between October 2015 and October 2017 at 12 national centres. A pleural lavage was performed before and after lung resection. The association between the different predictors of early recurrence and PLC positivity was performed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. A propensity score analysis was performed by inverse probability weighting (IPSW) using average treatment effect (ATE) estimation to analyse the impact of PLC positivity on early recurrence. RESULTS: Overall PLC positivity was observed in 15 patients (2.2%). After two years, 193 patients (28.2%) relapsed, 182 (27.2%) with a negative PLC and 11 (73.3%) with a positive PLC (p<0.001). Factors associated to early recurrence were adenocarcinoma histology (OR=1.59, 95%CI 1.06-2.38, p=0.025), visceral pleural invasion (OR=1.59, 95%CI 1.04-2.4, p=0.03), lymph node involvement (OR=1.84, 95%CI 1.14-2.96, p=0.013), advanced pathological stage (OR=2.12, 95%CI 1.27-3.54, p=0.004) and PLC positivity (OR=4.14, 95%CI 1.25-16.36, p=0.028). After IPSW, PLC positivity was associated with an increased risk of early recurrence (OR=3.46, 95%CI 2.25-5.36, p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Positive pleural lavage cytology was found to be the strongest predictor of early recurrence.

Malignant pleural effusion: current understanding and therapeutic approach.

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is a common complication of thoracic and extrathoracic malignancies and is associated with high mortality and elevated costs to healthcare systems. Over the last decades the understanding of pathophysiology mechanisms, diagnostic techniques and optimal treatment intervention in MPE have been greatly advanced by recent high-quality research, leading to an ever less invasive diagnostic approach and more personalized management. Despite a number of management options, including talc pleurodesis, indwelling pleural catheters and combinations of the two, treatment for MPE remains symptom directed and centered around drainage strategy. In the next future, because of a better understanding of underlying tumor biology together with more sensitive molecular diagnostic techniques, it is likely that combined diagnostic and therapeutic procedures allowing near total outpatient management of MPE will become popular. This article provides a review of the current advances, new discoveries and future directions in the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of MPE.

Pleural fluid carbohydrate antigen 72-4 and malignant pleural effusion: a diagnostic test accuracy study.

BACKGROUND: The prognosis of malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is poor. A timely and accurate diagnosis is the prerequisite for managing MPE patients. Carbohydrate antigen 72-4 (CA72-4) is a diagnostic tool for MPE. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of pleural fluid CA72-4 for MPE. DESIGN: A prospective, preregistered, and double-blind diagnostic test accuracy study. METHODS: We prospectively enrolled participants with undiagnosed pleural effusions from two centers in China (Hohhot and Changshu). CA72-4 concentration in pleural fluid was measured by electrochemiluminescence. Its diagnostic accuracy for MPE was evaluated by a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The net benefit of CA72-4 was determined by a decision curve analysis (DCA). RESULTS: In all, 153 participants were enrolled in the Hohhot cohort, and 58 were enrolled in the Changshu cohort. In both cohorts, MPE patients had significantly higher CA72-4 levels than benign pleural effusion (BPE) patients. At a cutoff value of 8 U/mL, pleural fluid CA72-4 had a sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.46, 1.00, and 0.79, respectively, in the Hohhot cohort. In the Changshu cohort, CA72-4 had a sensitivity, specificity, and AUC of 0.27, 0.94, and 0.86, respectively. DCA revealed the relatively high net benefit of CA72-4 determination. In patients with negative cytology, the AUC of CA72-4 was 0.67. CONCLUSION: Pleural fluid CA72-4 helps differentiate MPE and BPE in patients with undiagnosed pleural effusions.

Executive summary of the consensus document for the training and development of clinical ultrasound in Internal Medicine: Recommendations from the Clinical Ultrasound Working Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (GTECO-SEMI).

INTRODUCTION: Given the increasing adoption of clinical ultrasound in medicine, it is essential to standardize its application, training, and research. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS: The purpose of this document is to provide consensus recommendations to address questions about the practice and operation of clinical ultrasound units. Nineteen experts and leaders from advanced clinical ultrasound units participated. A modified Delphi consensus method was used. RESULTS: A total of 137 consensus statements, based on evidence and expert opinion, were considered. The statements were distributed across 10 areas, and 99 recommendations achieved consensus. CONCLUSIONS: This consensus defines the most important aspects of clinical ultrasound in the field of Internal Medicine, with the aim of standardizing and promoting this healthcare advancement in its various aspects. The document has been prepared by the Clinical Ultrasound Working Group and endorsed by the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine.

Efficacy and Safety of Indwelling Catheter for Malignant Pleural Effusions Related to Timing of Cancer Therapy: A Systematic Review

Introduction: To compare the efficacy and safety of indwelling pleural catheters (IPC) in relation with the timing of systemic cancer therapy (SCT) (i.e., before, during, or after SCT) in patients with malignant pleural effusion (MPE). Methods: Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCT), quasi-controlled trials, prospective and retrospective cohorts, and case series of over 20 patients, in which the timing of IPC insertion in relation to that of SCT was provided. Medline (via PubMed), Embase, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched from inception to January 2023. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias (ROB) tool for RCTs and the ROB in non-randomized studies of interventions (ROBINS-I) for non-randomized designs. Results: Ten studies (n=2907 patients; 3066 IPCs) were included. Using SCT while the IPC was in situ decreased overall mortality, increased survival time, and improved quality-adjusted survival. Timing of SCT had no effect on the risk of IPC-related infections (2.85% overall), even in immunocompromised patients with moderate or severe neutropenia (relative risk 0.98 [95%CI: 0.93–1.03] for patients treated with the combination of IPC and SCT). The inconsistency of the results or the lack of analysis of all outcome measures in relation to the SCT/IPC timing precluded drawing solid conclusions about time to IPC removal or need of re-interventions. Conclusions: Based on observational evidence, the efficacy and safety of IPC for MPE does not seem to vary depending on the IPC insertion timing (before, during, or after SCT). The data most likely support early IPC insertion. (AU)

Factores que influyen en la elección de la plaza de formación sanitaria especializada de MIR / Factors influencing the choice of MIR specialized health formation

Introducción: El examen de médico interno residente (MIR) se debe superar para acceder a una plaza de formación de médico especialista en España. Este estudio pretende: a) determinar los factores que influyen en la elección de la plaza de MIR; b) valorar el grado de información sobre el hospital/centro seleccionado; c) analizar las prioridades profesionales durante y posteriormente a la formación de MIR; y d) comparar los resultados entre estudiantes de sexto de Medicina y residentes MIR de primer año. Material y métodos: Se envió una encuesta anónima a 370 estudiantes de sexto de Medicina y 494 residentes de primer año de Cataluña y Aragón. Resultados: Contestaron 105 estudiantes y 104 residentes (24%). El 71% de los estudiantes y el 56% de los residentes preferían formarse en un centro distinto al que habían estudiado. Lo prioritario para escoger la plaza fue la especialidad, por encima de otros factores, como el hospital/centro o la ciudad. Globalmente, el 90% se informó acerca de las plazas, preferiblemente a través de otros residentes. Un 45% de los estudiantes y un 12% de los residentes se mostraban dispuestos a repetir el examen de MIR en caso de no disponer de la especialidad y el centro deseados en primera opción. Los encuestados valoraron positivamente aspectos como un ambiente de trabajo adecuado, un buen nivel asistencial y condiciones laborales óptimas. Conclusión: El factor más importante en la elección de la plaza de MIR es la especialidad deseada. En el centro de trabajo se valoran positivamente el nivel asistencial, el buen ambiente y las condiciones laborales.(AU)

Introduction: The MIR (médico interno residente, medical internal resident) examination must be passed to gain access to a specialist medical training place in Spain. This study aims to: a) determine the factors that influence the choice of the MIR position; b) assess the degree of information about the selected hospital/center; c) analyze the professional priorities during and after the MIR training; and d) compare the results between sixth year medical students and first year MIR residents: Material and methods: An anonymous survey was sent to 370 sixth year medical students and 494 first year residents from Catalonia and Aragon. Results: One hundred anf five students and 104 residents (24%) answered the survey. Seventy-one percent of students and 56% of residents preferred to train in a center other than the one in which they had studied. Priority was given to the specialty, above other factors such as the hospital/center or the city. Overall, 90% were informed about the positions, preferably through other residents. Forty-five percent of students and 12% of residents were willing to repeat the MIR exam if they did not have the desired specialty and center as their first choice. Respondents positively valued aspects such as an adequate working environment, a good level of care and optimal working conditions. Conclusion: The most important factor in the choice of the MIR position is the desired specialty. In the work center, the level of care, good environment and working conditions are positively valued.(AU)

Diagnosis and Treatment of Pleural Effusion. Recommendations of the Spanish Society of Pulmonology and Thoracic Surgery. Update 2022

Pleural effusion (PE) is a common yet complex disease that requires specialized, multidisciplinary management. Recent advances, novel diagnostic techniques, and innovative patient-centered therapeutic proposals have prompted an update of the current guidelines. This document provides recommendations and protocols based on a critical review of the literature on the epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, prognosis, and new therapeutic options in PE, and addresses some cost-effectiveness issues related to the main types of PE. (AU)