Which irritant is most commonly used for pleurodesis?

Talc is the most commonly used irritant for pleurodesis due to its effectiveness and long history of clinical use. Pleurodesis is a procedure intended to obliterate the pleural space in order to prevent the recurrence of pleural effusions or pneumothorax. Talc promotes an inflammatory response that helps to fuse the pleura together, thereby reducing the space where fluid can accumulate.

The use of talc is particularly noted for its ability to achieve a high success rate in preventing the re-accumulation of effusions. When it is instilled into the pleural space, talc particles provoke a strong inflammatory response, which leads to the formation of scar tissue between the pleural surfaces. This process is crucial for achieving the desired outcome of pleurodesis.

Other substances listed, such as ethyl alcohol, amiodarone, and doxycycline, may have uses in various medical treatments, but they are not the standard or most effective agents for pleurodesis. Ethyl alcohol is not commonly used mainly due to its potential for toxicity and severe local irritation. Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic medication and does not pertain to pleural management. Doxycycline, an antibiotic,