title: Rheumatoid pleural effusion: response to intrapleural corticosteroid.
abstract: The management of a patient with a large symptomatic rheumatoid pleural effusion is described. Thoracentesis and bed rest gave only short term modest benefit. A more lasting and beneficial response was obtained with an intrapleural injection of (120 mg) depomethylprednisolone acetate. This treatment is a useful interim measure until disease suppressive therapy gives systemic control.
authors.affiliation: Department of Rheumatology, Christchurch Hospital, NZ.
authors.forename: P T
authors.initials: PT
authors.lastname: Chapman
authors.forename: J L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: O'Donnell
authors.forename: P W
authors.initials: PW
authors.lastname: Moller
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000150:complications*; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D008775:Methylprednisolone / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000077555:Methylprednisolone Acetate; D010994:Pleura; D010996:Pleural Effusion / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D013902:Radiography, Thoracic
chemical_list: D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D000077555:Methylprednisolone Acetate; D008775:Methylprednisolone