The Daily PANCE and PANRE Question 60

Fluid from a thoracentesis is grossly purulent. The effusion from which this fluid was aspirated is best described as a(n):

  1. loculated effusion
  2. chylothorax
  3. empyema
  4. hydrothorax
  5. hemothorax

Answer: C

Empyema

A grossly purulent tap would suggest staph (empyema). Loculated effusion does not describe either a trans or exudative effusion. Chylo and hydrothorax suggest a transudative effusion (nonpurulent). And hemothorax is blood

Know Your Content Blueprint

Pleural effusion is covered in the NCCPA Content Blueprint Pulmonary (12%)

pleural-effusion

A 68-year-old with 6 months bilateral chest pain and difficulty breathing (watch video)

Learn more about the NCCPA Content Blueprint topic pleural diseases (pearls) and read up on pleural effusions