Abstract: Objective To determine the therapeutic effect of 6-month short-course chemotherapy of pure effusive tuberculous pleurisy,and to evaluate the period of treatment.Methods 256 cases of new pure effusive tuberculous pleurisy diagnosed and treated from 1996 to 2000 in 9 counties (distriats) TB Dispensaries in Beijing were reviewed and analyzed retrospectively.Results The rate of pleural effusion absorbed completely was 73.0% (187/256) at the end of 6-month.The cases were followed up 48 months and the relapse rate was 1.4%(2/139).The cases of pleural effusion not absorbed entirely continue received their treatment to 9～12 months,the relapse rate of following up 48 months was 2.2% (2/92).The patients with the duration between illness and clinical consultation ≤28 days or＞28 days,the rate of pleural effusion absorbed evidently were 87.1%(196/225)、67.7%(21/31) respectively at the end of 6-month.The rate of pleural not thickening were 54.7%(123/225)、32.3%(10/31) respectively,both rates were statistically significantly different.Conclusion The outcome of pure effusive tuberculous pleurisy used 6-month,the patients of pleural effusion not absorbed entirely could take their chemotherapy to 9～12 months.The early diagnosis and treatment were of benefit to the absorbing of pleural effusion and the reduction of pleural thickening.

Key words: Tuberculosis, pleurisy/chemotherapy