1. An abnormal accumulation of fluid in the pleural cavity surrounding the lungs.
Usage: Medical term; Also called pleural effusion in clinical contexts

Examples

• The patient was diagnosed with hydrothorax after imaging revealed fluid around the lungs.
• Hydrothorax can develop as a complication of heart failure or liver disease.
• The doctor ordered a thoracentesis to drain the hydrothorax and relieve the patient's breathing difficulty.
• Symptoms of hydrothorax include shortness of breath and chest discomfort.
• Treatment of hydrothorax depends on identifying and addressing the underlying cause.