Pleural effusion, the buildup of fluid surrounding the lung, can occur in patients with cancer, resulting in acute dyspnea. Pleurodesis is a procedure used to make the layers of the pleura stick together, eliminating the space for fluid buildup. In this procedure, a chemical or medication is inserted into the space between the pleura. The resulting inflammation causes these layers to stick together. Various medications such as antibiotics, povidone iodine, or a slurry of talc have been used.