Eight cases of refractory pneumothorax or pleural effusion treated by pleurodesis with 50% glucose solution

Abstract

From August 2015 to May 2018, eight patients with refractory pneumothorax or pleural effusion who underwent pleurodesis with a 50% glucose solution at the University of the Ryukyus Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Four of five patients with pneumothorax and two of three patients with pleural effusion were successfully treated with pleurodesis with a 50% glucose solution. Chest pain and fever were seen in four patients and one patient, respectively. However, these symptoms were minimal and manageable with acetaminophen. Due to increased pleural effusion, dehydration and renal dysfunction were also seen in three patients, and they were treated with infusion. Our study suggests that pleurodesis with a 50% glucose solution is both practical and safe. Therefore, this procedure could be considered an alternative treatment for patients with refractory pneumothorax or pleural effusion.