Causes

A variety of underlying conditions can cause pleurisy. Causes include:

• Viral infection, such as the flu (influenza)
• Bacterial infection, such as pneumonia
• Fungal infection
• Autoimmune disorder, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
• Lung cancer near the pleural surface
• Pulmonary embolism
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Rib fracture or trauma
• Certain inherited diseases, such as sickle cell disease
• Certain medications