Description
The pleura is a thin two-layered membrane that lines the outer surface of the lungs and inside surface of the ribcage. Pleurisy or pleuritis is an inflammation of the pleura. This inflammation is caused by many different disorders including: autoimmune diseases (Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, Scleroderma, Sarcoidosis), cancer, kidney failure, certain medications (Dilantin, procainamide, hydralazine), viral infections, bacterial infections, pulmonary embolism, and trauma.
Symptoms
Chest pain, chest pain that increases with deep breathing, coughing, shortness of breath, rapid breathing (tachypnea).
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A rubbing sound may be heard with a stethoscope. Chest X-ray can be helpful.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, D-Dimer, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Troponin
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Pulmonology, Family Practice, Pediatric Pulmonology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A rubbing sound may be heard with a stethoscope. Chest X-ray can be helpful.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, D-Dimer, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Troponin
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Pulmonology, Family Practice, Pediatric Pulmonology
Treatment
Treatment depends on what is causing the pleurisy and may include: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), antibiotics, autoimmune medications, and/or chemotherapy.