Inflammation of the pleura characterized by a sharp chest pain that worsens during inspiration, coughing, or sneezing. Etiology includes viral infection, pulmonary embolism, tuberculosis, pericarditis, exudative pleural effusions, pneumothorax, and trauma including rib fractures. Common findings include fever, cough, dyspnea, pleural rub, and cyanosis. Findings and treatment will vary based on etiology.

Occasionally, surgery to drain fluid from the lungs in required.