Pleural effusion is excess fluid that accumulates between the two pleural layers, the fluid-filled space that surrounds the lungs. Excessive amounts of such fluid can impair breathing by limiting the expansion of the lungs during ventilation.

Pleural Effusion (Fluid in the Lungs) is a condition with an abnormal collection of fluid in the Chest Cavity. The pleura is a thin membrane that lines the surface of the lungs and the inside of the chest wall outside the lungs. In pleural effusions, fluid accumulates in the space between the layers of pleura.

Excessive fluid may accumulate because the body does not handle fluid properly (such as in heart failure, or kidney and liver disease). The fluid or water in pleural effusions also may result from inflammation, such as in Pneumonia, Tuberculosis and many other conditions. In our country, Pneumonia and Tuberculosis are two of the commonest causes of Pleural Effusion.