Diagnostic utility of closed needle pleural biopsy in exudative pleural effusions

Abstract Background Exudative pleural effusions are often challenging, and on many occasions remain undiagnosed. Hence, a blind closed needle biopsy (CNPB) is extremely relevant against this background. Methods We conducted prospective study, in which CNPB using Cope’s was done patients with exudative effusion. Data were analysed SPSS software. Results Our study included 250 patients, of 140 (56%) males 110 (44%) female. 218 (87.2%) had tubercular effusion 22 (8.8%) secondary to malignancy, 8 (3.2%) synpneumonic effusions, 1 (0.4%) each pancreatitis rheumatoid arthritis (RA). AFB culture positive 50 (22.4%) fluid, as compared 209 (87%) biopsy. CBNAAT detected MTB 34 (14%) fluid 72 (28.8%) Caseous granuloma found 184 (73.6%). The sensitivity for tissue 95.8% 22.5%, respectively (P < 0.05). Drug susceptibility testing (DST) divided our drug sensitive 182 (87%), MDR 13 (6.2%), preXDR 12 (5.7%), XDR TB 2 (0.9%). For 9% 63%, Major complications the procedure pain 25 (10%), pneumothorax 15 (6%), haematoma (3%). Of who developed pneumothorax, only one patient required intervention an intercostal drain, rest resolved spontaneously. Conclusion easy, quick, cost-effective, reliable method that can be used diagnosing indeterminate aetiology out-patient setting.