RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 The management of benign non-infective pleural effusions JF European Respiratory Review JO EUROPEAN RESPIRATORY REVIEW FD European Respiratory Society SP 303 OP 316 DO 10.1183/16000617.0026-2016 VO 25 IS 141 A1 Oliver J. Bintcliffe A1 Gary Y.C. Lee A1 Najib M. Rahman A1 Nick A. Maskell YR 2016 UL http://err.ersjournals.com/content/25/141/303.abstract AB The evidence base concerning the management of benign pleural effusions has lagged behind that of malignant pleural effusions in which recent randomised trials are now informing current clinical practice and international guidelines.The causes of benign pleural effusions are broad, heterogenous and patients may benefit from individualised management targeted at both treating the underlying disease process and direct management of the fluid. Pleural effusions are very common in a number of non-malignant pathologies, such as decompensated heart failure, and following coronary artery bypass grafting. Pleural fluid analysis forms an important basis of the diagnostic evaluation, and more specific assays and imaging modalities are helpful in specific subpopulations.Options for management beyond treatment of the underlying disorder, whenever possible, include therapeutically aspirating the fluid, talc pleurodesis and insertion of an indwelling pleural catheter. Randomised trials will inform clinicians in the future as to the risks and benefits of these options providing a guide as to how best to manage patient symptoms in this challenging clinical setting.Benign pleural effusion management is challenging and based on limited evidence. Treatment options are discussed http://ow.ly/10EOSN