Pleural fluid sampling is the first line investigation in the diagnostic pathway of unilateral suspected exudative effusion.
Previous studies have shown mean sensitivity of about 60% for malignancy on pleural fluid cytology.
In those with unclear etiology, pleural biopsy is undertaken to confirm the diagnosis..
Taking a Pleural Fluid Test
The procedure to collect a sample from the pleural fluid is called thoracentesis, and it requires carefully inserting a needle into the pleural space around the lungs.
This procedure is done by a health professional in a controlled medical environment like a hospital or doctor's office..
The provider cleans the skin around the insertion site.
Numbing medicine (anesthetic) is injected into the skin.
A needle is placed through the skin and muscles of the chest wall into the space around the lungs, called the pleural space.
As fluid drains into a collection bottle, you may cough a bit..
A cytology exam of pleural fluid is a laboratory test to detect cancer cells and certain other cells in the fluid from the area that surrounds the lungs.
This area is called the pleural space.
Cytology means the study of cells.Jul 31, 2022.
A sample of fluid from the pleural space is needed.
The sample is taken using a procedure called thoracentesis.
The procedure is done in the following way:.
1) You sit on a bed or on the edge of a chair or bed.
Your head and arms rest on a table.
2) A small area of skin on your back is cleaned.
Numbing medicine (local anesthetic) is injected in this.
You will feel stinging when the local anesthetic is injected.
You may feel pain or pressure when the needle is inserted into the pleural space.
Tell your health care provider if you feel short of breath or have chest pain.
Risks are related to thoracentesis and may include:.
1) Bleeding.
2) Infection.
3) Collapse of the lung (pneumothorax).
4) Difficulty breathing
A cytology exam is used to look for cancer and precancerous cells.
It may also be done for other conditions, such as identifying systemic lupus erythematosuscells.
Your doctor may order this test if you have signs of fluid buildup in the pleural space.
This condition is called pleural effusion.
The test may also be done if you have signs of lung ca.
