Pleural fluid analysis |
| Definition: |
| This test examines fluid that has accumulated in the pleural space. The pleura is a thin membrane that lines the outside of the lung and the chest cavity. An accumulation of fluid between the layers of the pleura is called a pleural effusion. |
| How the test is performed: |
| A sample of pleural fluid is obtained by the procedure of thoracentesis. The specimen is examined for chemical content (for example, protein, glucose, certain enzymes), cellular composition, the presence of malignant (cancer) cells, and the presence of microorganisms. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
| Adults: There is no special preparation. Do not cough, breathe deeply, or move during the test to avoid injury to the lung. A chest X-ray may be performed before and/or after the test. Your doctor will probably want to observe you for 30-60 minutes after the procedure to see if a complication occurs. Infants and children: The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
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| How the test will feel: |
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You will be positioned sitting on the edge of a chair or bed with your head and arms resting on a table. The skin around the insertion site is disinfected, and the area is draped. A local anesthetic is injected into the skin. The thoracentesis needle is inserted above the rib into the pocket of fluid. There will be a stinging sensation when the local anesthetic is injected, and a sensation of pressure when the needle is inserted into the pleural space. Inform your health care provider if you develop sharp chest pain or shortness of breath. |
| Why the test is performed: |
| The test is performed to determine the cause of a pleural effusion. |
| Normal Values: |
| With normal values, the pleural cavity contains less than 20 milliliters (four teaspoons) of serous (clear, yellowish) fluid. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
| With abnormal results, the analysis of the fluid will indicate possible causes of pleural effusion, such as infection, neoplasms, heart failure, and cirrhosis. If infection is suspected, a culture of the fluid is often done to determine the presence of microorganisms. Additional conditions under which the test may be performed: |
| What the risks are: |
| The risks of thoracentesis are pneumothorax (collapse of the lung), fluid re-accumulation, pulmonary edema, excessive loss of blood, infection, and respiratory distress. Serious complications are uncommon. |
| Special considerations: |
| The fluid analysis cost does not include the cost of the procedure to obtain the specimen. |
Reviewed By: David A. Kaufman, M.D., Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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