The 2023 British Thoracic Society Guideline for Pleural Disease Update on Malignant Pleural Effusion

Abstract

The management of malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) has developed hugely since the publication of the management of an MPE: British Thoracic Society (BTS) Pleural Disease Guideline 2010. The presence of an MPE reflects advanced or metastatic disease (excluding malignant pleural mesothelioma) and thus the management of MPE often focuses on symptomatic relief of symptoms and improving quality of life. We provide a review of the 2023 BTS guidance in relation to malignant pleural effusions and specific points on imaging and systemic anti-cancer treatment by concentrating on a hypothetical patient vignette.

Keywords

• talc pleurodesis
• malignant pleural effusion
• indwelling pleural catheter
• chest drain