[Diagnostic cost-effectiveness of bronchofiberoscopy in pleural effusions].
With the aim of testing the cost-effectiveness of diagnostic fiberbronchoscopy in pleural effusions, the results obtained in a study of 46 patients in whom pleural effusion was the only indication for this diagnostic technique was analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups based on whether they presented pleural effusion of unkown ethiology (group A) or non-localized primary metastatic effusion (group B). Two out of 28 patients in group A, and 5 out of 18 in group B were diagnosed by means of fiberbronchoscopy. It is concluded that given the good tolerance and low morbidity of this exam, the diagnostic cost-effectiveness  justifies its performance in such situations. Possible modifications in the indications that could influence its utility are discussed.
Romero Candeira
S
S
Sección de Neumología, Hospital de Alicante del Servicio valenciano de Salud.
Valverde Molina
J
J
Martín Serrano
C
C
Izquierdo Patrón
M
M
Hernández Blasco
L
L
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001999:Bronchoscopy / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D005260:Female; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010996:Pleural Effusion / Q000175:diagnosis*
Rentabilidad diagnóstica de la broncofibroscopia en los derrames pleurales.