What is the treatment for viral pleurisy?

What is the treatment for viral pleurisy?

• A. Antibiotics
• B. NSAIDs
• C. Corticosteroids
• D. Antivirals

Answer: (B)

Viral pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura caused by a viral infection, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and inflammation rather than eradicating infection. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the best choice because they reduce pleural inflammation and alleviate pleuritic chest pain without needing antibiotics or antiviral therapy. Antibiotics aren’t indicated unless there’s a concern for a concurrent bacterial infection, and antivirals aren’t routinely helpful for most viruses that cause pleurisy. Corticosteroids aren’t routinely recommended due to limited demonstrated benefit and potential side effects, though they might be considered in select cases with severe pain after weighing risks and benefits. Most patients improve with NSAIDs and supportive care.

Viral pleurisy is inflammation of the pleura caused by a viral infection, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and inflammation rather than eradicating infection. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the best choice because they reduce pleural inflammation and alleviate pleuritic chest pain without needing antibiotics or antiviral therapy. Antibiotics aren’t indicated unless there’s a concern for a concurrent bacterial infection, and antivirals aren’t routinely helpful for most viruses that cause pleurisy. Corticosteroids aren’t routinely recommended due to limited demonstrated benefit and potential side effects, though they might be considered in select cases with severe pain after weighing risks and benefits. Most patients improve with NSAIDs and supportive care.