Aim: To study the epidemiologic, clinic, biologic and therapeutics aspects of pleural effusion at National university healty center (CNHU) of Cotonou.
Method: From January 2004 to December 2008, we have conduct a retrospective study in the pediatric service of Cotonou’s CNHU. 15 children less than 5 years old were included in the study. A chest X ray radiography have been done for all the children at the hospitalization. Epi info and chi square test were used for the statistical study.
Result: Pleural effusion’s incidence is growing in the service and in this statement children old less than 5 years are more concerned. Fever, chest and abdominal complaints were the most clinical sign.The diagnosis of pleural effusion was established in 56.3% and Staphylococcus aureus was found. Antibiotic, pleural puncture and blood transfusion were used as therapeutics method. Mortality rate was 5.6%. In conclusion, pleural effusion management in Cotonou CHNU is suffering by the etiologic diagnosis of the disease.