Closed pleural biopsy to diagnose mesothelioma: dead or alive?
This letter explores the role of closed pleural biopsy in the diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma. Through retrospective analysis of local data, we found that closed pleural biopsy had a sensitivity of 44% in the diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma. It should therefore still be considered as a first line investigation in suspected mesothelioma especially in centres where CT-guided or thoracoscopic pleural biopsy are not immediately available.
McLaughlin
Kris M
KM
Department of Respiratory Medicine, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, UK. k.mclaughlin@nhs.net
Kerr
Keith M
KM
Currie
Graeme P
GP
D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D006801:Humans; D008654:Mesothelioma / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D010997:Pleural Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity