Thoracocentesis (Pleural Tap/Pleural Fluid Aspiration)

Thoracocentesis

Introduction Thoracocentesis is a surgical procedure that removes excess pleural fluid or air from the area between the lung and the chest wall. The procedure is also known as “pleural fluid aspiration,” “pleural tap,” “pleurocentesis,” and “thoracentesis.” Indications of Thoracocentesis Diagnostic A diagnostic thoracocentesis involves the removal of a small sample of pleural fluid (approximately … Read more

Pneumonia: Causes, Symptoms, Management

Pneumonia

Introduction The word pneumonia originated from the Greek word- ‘pneumon’ meaning ‘lung’. So, the word pneumonia is a disease related to the lungs. Incidence Types of Pneumonia Based on source of infection Based on microbes Viral Influenza virus type A Cytomegalovirus Bacterial Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcal pneumonia)Klebsiella pneumoniaHemophilus influenza Pseudomonas aeruginosa Streptococcus aureus Fungal Pneumocystis carinii … Read more

Encephalitis: Causes, Treatment, Prevention

Encephalitis

Introduction Encephalitis is derived from the Greek word enkephalos meaning “brain” and itis meaning “inflammation”, which simply means the inflammation of the brain. It is an infectious condition (mostly viral) of the central nervous system (CNS) and can be life-threatening. Incidence Types of Encephalitis Primary Encephalitis When a virus directly infects the brain and spinal cord, this is called primary … Read more