Definition 
Pleural fluid analysis 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 a procedure called thoracentesis. The specimen is examined for chemical content, cellular composition, the presence of malignant cells, and the presence of microorganisms.

How to prepare for the test 
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 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 preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child’s age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For general information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

 
• Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)  
• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)  
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)  
• School age test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)  
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel 

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 done to determine the presence of microorganisms.

Another condition under which the test may be performed is hemothorax, a collection of blood in the pleura.

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 and the cost of the procedure to obtain the specimen are charged separately.

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.