Diseases of pleura encompass a complex of affections including acute and chronic infections, inflammatory disease, malignant and benign neoplasia. Pleural processes are often complex and diagnosis only on the basis of X-ray images is difficult. Computed tomography is therefore a necessary method for the diagnosis and determination of topographic-anatomical localization of the changes. Biopsy is a supplementary examination which markedly improves sensitivity of the method. The following drainage is then a definitive therapeutic intervention in many cases.

        Key words: pleura – pleural space – fluidothorax – exudate transudate