Diagnostic Accuracy of Ultrasound and Computed Tomography in Differentiating Transudate from Exudate in Patients with Pleural Effusion

Abstract

Objective: To compare the diagnostic accuracy of Computed Tomography and Ultrasonography in differentiating trans-dative and exudative pleural effusion.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Radiology Department of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad Pakistan, from Jul to Oct 2021.

Methodology: Patients suffering (n=80) from pleural effusion were involved, and all were assessed with ultrasound and computed Tomography along with diagnostic thoracocentesis. In addition, we investigated pleural thickening, pleural nodules, and loculations along with the USG signs and Computed Tomography attenuation values to detect transudate and exudate in individuals suffering from pleural effusion.

Results: Participants had a mean age of 36.20±6.67 years, ranging from 25 to 49 years. Out of 80 patients, 50(62.5 %) were males, and 30(37.5%) were females. Of the eighty patients with pleural effusion, 29 were transudative 36(25%), and 51 were exudative 63(75%). Overall, USG showed better results for loculations, while CT showed better results for pleural thickeningand nodules.

Conclusion: Attenuation values of Computed Tomography play an essential role in differentiating the type of pleural effusion. In addition, ultrasound is a supporting non-invasive imaging modality that helps define the characteristics of pleural effusion.