Tuberculous Dry Pleurisy

Tuberculous dry pleurisy usually results from spread of pulmonary tuberculosis to the pleura. It most often occurs at the posterior lung apex, then the lower chest pleura. Pulmonary tuberculous foci are sometimes discovered during workup for chest pain.

Common Symptoms

Chest tightness with chest pain; palpitations; dyspnea; night sweats; fatigue; fever with cough; hemoptysis...

Causes and Pathogenesis

Pathology: The pleura is congested and edematous with leukocyte infiltration and endothelial cell desquamation, losing its normal luster. A small amount of fibrin deposits on the pleural surface, thickening and roughening it. Healing forms pleural adhesions, though sometimes it resolves without residue.

Treatment

Drug therapy, supportive therapy

Preventive Measures

1. Control the source of infection: Smear-positive patients are the main source; early detection and rational treatment is fundamental. Family members of infants with active TB should be examined (chest X-ray, PPD). School and childcare staff should have regular checkups. 2. Universal BCG vaccination: BCG, invented by French physicians Calmette and Guérin in 1921 (B.C.G), is effective for pediatric TB. China recommends neonatal BCG intradermally in the upper deltoid, 0.05 mg per dose; scarification is rarely used. The 1997 Ministry of Health notice discontinued booster doses at ages 7 and 12, though they may still be given to Mantoux-negative children if needed. Neonatal BCG may be given in the opposite arm on the same day as hepatitis B vaccine.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Respiratory department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.