Pleuritis (Lung Covering Inflammation)
Description
The pleura is a thin two-layered membrane that lines the lungs and chest cavity. 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, cyanosis (blue discoloration of skin), shortness of breath, rapid breathing (tachypnea).
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to rule out other casues of the pain may be done.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- Troponin
- D-Dimer
- EKG
- CT Scan
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. For additional information contact the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Health Information Center at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov or call (301)592-8573.
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