Malignant pleural effusions

Malignant pleural effusion (MPE) is defined as an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space due to the presence of cancer cells. Malignant pleural effusion affects up to 15% of all patients with cancer. As global cancer incidence increases and overall survival improves, the incidence of MPE is likely to increase. The aim of this review, based on our previously published papers is to provide physicians involved in the treatment of different malignancies in basic information regarding patophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of MPE.