#pleural cavity

[drawittoknowitmedical]

Gross Anatomy Glossary: Lungs & Pleura

Lungs * The primary function of the lungs is to facilitate gas exchange between the body and the external environment. * The lungs occupy most of the [thoracic cage: ](/term/gross-anatomy/thoracic-cage)* The apex of the lung, its most superior p

[lynzing]

Test results

April 17th 2018, I received a text from my mom regarding her test results.

“Test results:

This is all i know for now.

There is no cancer in the bone marrow. The cancer on the pleura is Stage 1 cancer on both lungs and only on the top of both sides. Will discuss treatment options at my next appointment.

While i was there they also did a bone loss test. The right femur has 32% bone loss, left femur 42% bone loss, back has overall 49% bone loss. They broke it down to L this n L that but too much to type.

My scoliosis has worsened quite a bit. Will discuss treatment with Primary when i see him.”

*breathe*

It’s better than we thought. Stage 1. This is beatable. I’m believe we can come together as a family and help her strive through this. She’s very stressed. Understandable to say the least. She goes back in for a treatment plan on Thursday.

I love you mom. You fight, I fight. We got this!

[lynzing]

One word

Cancer .. 😔

Cancer...

No matter how many times I say that ugly, revolting word, I cringe. That single word holds so much overwhelming emotions, I don’t know where to begin. You are ultimately tested to the fullest. Mind, body and soul. It’ll test your faith, your self power. The wear and tear in your body.... -sigh- This word tears her apart. The most amazing woman I know, so strong, brave and ultimately, a little warrior. My best friend, my rock, my mother.

My mom has been battling cancer for nearly a decade. It started with breast cancer. She had a double mastectomy. She went through rigorous therapy. It ultimately took a huge toll on her body, soul and mind. Soon the cancer appeared in different spots. Stomach, colon and now her pleural cavity, in both lungs. I’ve done some research on this diagnosis. I just found out about this on April 7th (2018). I won’t bore you all with a lot of medical stuff, but the best explanation is from this website I stumbled across.

According to surgery.usc.edu - “The cancer cells of many types can gain entry into the pleural cavity, and many times cause the accumulation of fluid known as a pleural effusion. This is due to cancer cells plugging the microscopic drainage sites in the pleural lining where the body can normally absorb fluid. It is also due to the direct secretion of fluid by the cancer cells themselves. As the fluid accumulates, it pushes the lung and collapses it, causing shortness of breath or chest discomfort.”

My mom has been experiencing a lot of these symptoms which resulted in her contacting her doctor. Upon X-rays and blood work, they found black spots on her pleural cavity in both lungs. Thankfully, she thinks this was caught in the last four months, as there were no indication in her last round of tests. One thing we know for sure, the cancer has not penetrated the lungs. She will receive therapy once she gets set up with the right medical team to help her fight through this. I’ve encouraged her to quit smoking and so has my brother. This is so new of a diagnosis that we don’t know much more. What the near future holds for her. I am the hope she needs. I recently talked with my older brother. He and I are same page as for our part in this. The reality seems to be sinking more and more as I write this. My mind is tired. I’ve cried so much today. Selfishly, yes. But also the sickening fact that my mom will be hurting and suffering so much. Fuck! Especially if she goes through active chemo. I wish I was a cancer doctor, or at least understand this more. She was on oral cancer medication which I think slowed down the progress.

Ive been without sleep for so long now, I must go rest.

I love you woo

[healthwithtips]

Pleural Effusion and Fever – Basics, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, Treatment

Basics DEFINITION A pleural effusion is defined by fluid in the pleural space. Light’s criteria are usually used for separating transudates and exudates. Exudative pleural effusions meet at least one of the following criteria: Pleural fluid protein/serum protein >0.5 Pleural fluid lactate d... Pleural Effusion and Fever – Basics, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, Treatment

[healthwithtips]

Pleural Effusion – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Ongoing care

Basics A pleural effusion is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural space. Description Pneumonia (25%), malignancy (15%), and pulmonary embolism (10%) account for most exudative effusions. Malignant: Primary carcinoma of the lung and metastases of breast, ovary, and lymphoma... Pleural Effusion – Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Ongoing care

[medicalschool]

Two surgeons and a nurse performing a Thoracoscopy by which they are examining the pleural cavity by means of an Endoscope to later perform a biopsy. October, 1987. National Cancer Institute.