Stubborn pleural effusion

Jodisgoing180
Jodisgoing180 Member Posts: 97
in Uterine/Endometrial Cancer #1

I posted this on another board, but asking here:


Jun 13, 2016 - 5:20 pm





I was diagnosed in Feb 2016. I had a pleural effusion (how I was initially diagnosed).  Anyway, they drained it and it returned after my hysterectomy. I had the hysterectomy and debulking before chemo. My doctor told me that it would clear up with chemo. It has not cleared up. I have no symptoms. The only symptom i have is some pressure on my ribs. It was worse before, but is slowly lessening. Is the fact I have an effusion still any indication that chemo is not working?  My CA-125 is elevated because of chronic sinus issues, and not a great indicator.  Do I request it be drained again?  The doctor seems unconcerned. 





 

Comments

  • Soup52
    Soup52 Member Posts: 908 Member
    edited June 2016 #2
    So sorry for your problems

    So sorry for your problems and my ignorance. What is pleural effusion?

  • Jodisgoing180
    Jodisgoing180 Member Posts: 97
    edited June 2016 #3
    Fluid on the lungs. 

    Fluid on the lungs. 

  • Kvdyson
    Kvdyson Member Posts: 790 Member
    #4
    Two types of pleural effusion

    Hi Jodi, I did some research and it seems that there are two types of pleural effusion: 

    Uncomplicated pleural effusion: The pleural effusion contains fluid that is free of serious inflammation or infection. If large enough, an uncomplicated pleural effusion can cause symptoms. However, these pleural effusions rarely cause permanent lung problems.

    Complicated pleural effusion: A complicated pleural effusion contains fluid that has significant inflammation or infection. If untreated, complicated pleural effusions may harden to form a constricting ring around the lung. This hardening process, called organization, can permanently impair breathing. To prevent organization, complicated pleural effusions require drainage, usually with a tube placed into the chest.

    Sounds like your doctor may think it's the first type but you might want to consider calling the office to be sure. I love my gyn-onc but I found out the hard way that if a problem I'm experiencing isn't directly related to the cancer he's not going to focus on it. I go to my primary care physician for any problem not directly related to the cancer. Do you have a primary care physician that you can consult?

    Hoping that this clears up for you soon! Kim

     

     

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