PLEURAL FLUID ANALYSIS – BC274
🫁 Lung Fluid Infection & TB CheckThis sample cannot be collected by a lab technician at home. It must be extracted by a doctor via a procedure called Thoracentesis (fluid tap). You must bring the collected fluid to the lab for analysis.
📋 Test Details
- Report Time: Same Day.
- Sample Type: Pleural Fluid (in sterile container).
- Parameters: Physical, Chemical (Protein/Sugar), and Microscopic (Cell Count).
What is Pleural Fluid Analysis?
The pleura is a double-layered membrane surrounding your lungs. Normally, there is a tiny amount of fluid between these layers to help the lungs glide smoothly while breathing. However, certain diseases cause excess fluid to build up. This condition is called Pleural Effusion.
This test analyzes that fluid to determine why it is building up. Is it due to an infection (like TB or Pneumonia), a systemic issue (like Heart Failure), or something more serious like cancer?
Why is this Test Prescribed?
Doctors order this test if a patient has symptoms of fluid in the lungs (breathlessness, chest pain, dry cough) and an X-ray confirms fluid. The analysis answers one main question: Is it Transudate or Exudate?
The fluid is clear and watery. Usually caused by Congestive Heart Failure, Liver Cirrhosis, or Kidney failure. It happens due to pressure imbalances.
The fluid is cloudy, rich in proteins and cells. Usually caused by Tuberculosis (TB), Pneumonia, or Lung Cancer. It happens due to inflammation or infection.
What Parameters are Checked?
- Physical Examination: Color (Straw, Bloody, Milky) and Clarity.
- Cell Count: High Neutrophils indicate bacterial infection. High Lymphocytes often indicate TB or Cancer.
- Biochemistry:
- Protein & LDH: Differentiates transudate vs. exudate.
- Glucose: Very low glucose is seen in severe infections and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions
The analysis in the lab is not painful. However, the fluid extraction (Thoracentesis) done by your doctor involves a needle prick in the back/chest, which is performed under local anesthesia.
Yes. In India, a high lymphocyte count and high ADA (Adenosine Deaminase - usually ordered additionally) in pleural fluid is a strong indicator of Tuberculosis.
The sample should be in a sterile container provided by the hospital or lab. It must be transported to the lab immediately to prevent cells from degrading.
Disclaimer: This test analyzes fluid collected by a medical professional. Do not attempt to collect this sample yourself.