Title: Developing a Scoring System in the Diagnosis of Tuberculous Pleural Effusion
Authors: Dr Neena.P.S, Dr Jayaprakash.B, Dr Ronald Win.B
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i3.205
Abstract
Pleural effusion occurs in approximately 5% of patients with tuberculosis. Since tuberculous pleural effusion is paucibacillary in nature, demonstration of AFB bacilli will not be possible in most of the cases, which makes the diagnosis difficult. None of the available pleural fluid tests are confirmatory for the diagnosis.
Aim of the study: To develop a scoring system for the diagnosis of TB pleural effusion based on clinical features & tests that are easier to perform & inexpensive.
Methodology: The study was conducted as prospective Diagnostic tests evaluation. All cases of pleural effusion attending Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram were subjected to blood investigatiuons, chest xray, mantoux test and pleural fluid analysis in addition to detailed clinical history. A scoring system was developed using appropriate statistical methods for diagnosis of tuberculosis.
Results: Score less than 7, TB pleural effusion unlikely; 7 -10 TB pleural effusion probable; 11 – 16, TB pleural effusion most probable and score greater than 16 TB pleural effusion definite
Keywords: Pleural effusion, Tuberculosis, Scoring system.
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