Fluid from a thoracentesis is grossly purulent. The effusion from which this fluid was aspirated is best described as a(n):
- loculated effusion
- chylothorax
- empyema
- hydrothorax
- 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%)
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