The causes of transudate vary. Several conditions cause the pleural fluid, or transudate, to leak out of the blood vessels. Transudate may move into the pleural space due to heart, kidney, liver or malnutrition problems. The goal is to diagnose the cause of the transudate and effectively treat it.

Function

Protective membranes surround the lungs. Cells in these membranes, also called "pleural linings," secrete a thin fluid that lubricates the space between the membranes lining the chest wall and the lungs. This fluid decreases friction caused by movement from breathing. It is normal and healthy to have this lubricating fluid.

Significance

If the patient suffers from another disorder, then the transudate, or fluid, may leak from its normal place in the pleural cavity.

Effects

The patient with a transudate condition may experience shortness of breath, pain when breathing, dry cough or a need to take many breaths.

Types

An April 2006 article in "American Family Physician" indicated that the most common causes of transudate in adults are heart failure, malignancy, tuberculosis, pneumonia and pulmonary embolism. In children, the most common cause is pneumonia.

Identification

Medical professionals perform tests such as thoracentesis or a biopsy to determine the cause of transudate.

Prevention/Solution

To treat pleural effusion or excess fluid, doctors target the cause. For example, if an individual has a lung infection, a doctor will treat the patient with antibiotics and pain medication. If doctors cannot pinpoint the cause, then the fluid may be drained out using a catheter, or, in severe cases, sealing the pleural space.

Source:

Pleural Effusion article: Lifesteps

Diagnostic Approach to Pleural Effusion in Adults article: Amercan Family Physician

Resource:

Pleurisy articles: Mayo Clinic.com