Resolution of refractory hepatic hydrothorax after chemical pleurodesis with minocycline.

Abstract

Management of refractory hepatic hydrothorax is a challenge to physicians in clinical practice. We reported two patients with hepatic hydrothorax, non-alcoholic cirrhosis and rapidly recurring pleural effusion. They failed to improve with diuretics and repeated thoracentesis. Refractory hepatic hydrothorax was successfully treated by minocycline-induced pleural symphysis. After pleurodesis, ventilatory function returned to normal in both patients. No recurrence of pleural effusion was noted. We suggest that minocycline pleurodesis is an alternative treatment for refractory hepatic hydrothorax because it is simple, safe and effective.

• Authors: C C Lin, J C Wu, S C Chang, Y H Huang, T I Huo, F Y Chang, S D Lee
• Journal: Zhonghua yi xue za zhi = Chinese medical journal; Free China ed (Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi (Taipei)) Vol. 63 Issue 9 Pg. 704-9 (Sep 2000) ISSN: 0578-1337 [Print] China (Republic : 1949- )
• PMID: 11037647 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anti-Bacterial Agents
• Minocycline

Topics

• Aged
• Anti-Bacterial Agents (therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Hydrothorax (physiopathology, therapy)
• Liver Cirrhosis (complications)
• Lung (physiopathology)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Minocycline (therapeutic use)
• Pleurodesis