What is another term for pleural effusion?

Pleural effusion refers to the accumulation of excess fluid in the pleural cavity, the space between the lungs and the chest wall. The term "hydrothorax" specifically describes this condition, as "hydro" indicates water or fluid, and "thorax" refers to the chest area. Therefore, hydrothorax is another term directly synonymous with pleural effusion.

The other terms listed, such as pneumothorax, describe different conditions. Pneumothorax involves the presence of air in the pleural space, which is distinct from fluid accumulation. "Fluidothorax" is not a standard medical term used to define pleural effusion and lacks clinical recognition. Lastly, thoracic edema could refer to fluid accumulation generally in the thoracic region but does not specifically indicate the fluid's presence in the pleural space. Thus, hydrothorax is the correct term that directly corresponds to pleural effusion.