Thoracoscopy
This procedure is done if tuberculosis or cancer is the cause of your pleurisy. Doctors perform a thoracoscopy (also known as pleuroscopy). It involves inserting a little camera called a thoracoscope into the chest cavity through small incisions made by the doctor, this procedure allows the doctor to see directly inside the chest to observe any abnormalities or get a sample of the irritated tissue (biopsy).
Thoracoscopy is an invasive procedure that is associated with several risks. This is procedure is only done when necessary. People need to know that this procedure must be done by a doctor.
Biopsy
A pleural biopsy is important in knowing the cause of pleurisy. The pleura is a layer of membrane that surrounds the lungs. Doctors make a small incision in the skin of the chest wall. Then the doctor uses a needle to remove a small tissue sample of the pleura.
This tissue is taken to the laboratory and some tests are done to analyze for infection, cancer [4], tuberculosis [5], and any other severe condition.