Which cancer is among the most common causes of malignant pleural effusion?

Which cancer is among the most common causes of malignant pleural effusion?

• A. Lung Cancer
• B. Pancreatic Cancer
• C. Thyroid Cancer
• D. Testicular Cancer

Answer: (A)

Malignant pleural effusion happens when cancer involves the pleural space or blocks its lymphatics, leading to fluid buildup. Lung cancer is by far the most frequent source of malignant effusions because it commonly invades or metastasizes to the pleura and is also the most common cancer overall. Adenocarcinoma of the lung, in particular, is well known for shedding cells into the pleural space, causing malignant fluid that can worsen breathing. The other cancers listed—pancreatic, thyroid, and testicular—are much less likely to involve the pleura in a way that produces malignant effusion. So, lung cancer stands out as the most common cause of malignant pleural effusion.

Malignant pleural effusion happens when cancer involves the pleural space or blocks its lymphatics, leading to fluid buildup. Lung cancer is by far the most frequent source of malignant effusions because it commonly invades or metastasizes to the pleura and is also the most common cancer overall. Adenocarcinoma of the lung, in particular, is well known for shedding cells into the pleural space, causing malignant fluid that can worsen breathing. The other cancers listed—pancreatic, thyroid, and testicular—are much less likely to involve the pleura in a way that produces malignant effusion. So, lung cancer stands out as the most common cause of malignant pleural effusion.