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==Introduction==

==Description==

Transudates are a type of [[:Category:Effusions|effusion]] that has a low cellularity and a low protein content.  Transudates occur due to imbalances in the [[Blood Pressure Physiology#Capillary Fluid Shift Mechanism |'''Starling forces''']], of which the two principal examples are hydrostatic pressure and plasma oncotic pressure (or colloid osmotic pressure).  The following causes of transudate effusions are therefore recognised:

Transudates are a type of [[:Category:Effusions|effusion]] that has a low cellularity and a low protein content.  Transudates occur due to imbalances in the [[Blood Pressure Physiology#Capillary Fluid Shift Mechanism |'''Starling forces''']], of which the two principal examples are hydrostatic pressure and plasma oncotic pressure (or colloid osmotic pressure).  The following causes of transudate effusions are therefore recognised:

*'''Reduced plasma oncotic pressure''' may occur if plasma proteins are lost.  Albumin contributes 75% of the total oncotic pressure so [[Hypoalbuminaemia|'''hypoalbuminaemia''']] is the major cause of transudate effusions.

*'''Reduced plasma oncotic pressure''' may occur if plasma proteins are lost.  Albumin contributes 75% of the total oncotic pressure so [[Hypoalbuminaemia|'''hypoalbuminaemia''']] is the major cause of transudate effusions.

Inappropriate activation of the RAAS is best treated with the diuretic spironolactone (a potassium sparing diuretic) because this prevents aldosterone from acting on Na/K pumps in the distal convoluted tubules and collecting ducts of the renal nephrons.  Frusemide (a loop diuretic) may be used later if aldosterone does not produce satisfactory results.  The underlying cause of the increased hydrostatic pressure should also be addressed.       

Inappropriate activation of the RAAS is best treated with the diuretic spironolactone (a potassium sparing diuretic) because this prevents aldosterone from acting on Na/K pumps in the distal convoluted tubules and collecting ducts of the renal nephrons.  Frusemide (a loop diuretic) may be used later if aldosterone does not produce satisfactory results.  The underlying cause of the increased hydrostatic pressure should also be addressed.       

[[Category:Effusions]]

[[Category:Effusions]]

[[Category:Expert_Review]]

[[Category:Expert_Review]]