OBJECTIVES: I. Compare intrapleural bleomycin vs. doxycycline vs. talc in the treatment of malignant pleural effusion with respect to time to recurrence of the effusion. II. Compare these treatments with respect to the necessity for further treatment of recurrent effusions. III. Compare these treatments with respect to the extent of postinfusion complications, including pain and dyspnea. IV. Compare these treatments with respect to duration of chest tube or soft catheter drainage required following pleurodesis. V. Compare these treatments with respect to duration of hospitalization for retreatment of malignant pleural effusion following recurrence. VI. Compare these treatments with respect to survival. VII. Compare these treatments with respect to the impact of the procedure on pain and dyspnea.