A pleural effusion specialist is typically a pulmonologist (lung doctor) or a thoracic surgeon who focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions related to the pleura (the membranes surrounding the lungs) and pleural effusion (fluid buildup in the pleural space). They have expertise in the management of pleural diseases, including performing diagnostic procedures like thoracentesis, interpreting imaging studies, and developing treatment plans for underlying causes such as infections, heart failure, or cancer. These specialists may also manage more complex cases requiring surgical intervention or ongoing care for recurrent effusions.