Thoracentesis

Pleural Tap

Why It Is Done

Thoracentesis may be done to:

• Find the cause of excess pleural fluid (pleural effusion).
• Relieve shortness of breath and pain caused by a pleural effusion.

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Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: March 10, 2009
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care, Medical Toxicology
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