Pleural fluid analysis
Normal Values
Normally the pleural cavity contains less than 20 milliliters (4 teaspoons) of clear, yellowish (serous) fluid. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What do Abnormal Results Mean?
Abnormal results may indicate possible causes of pleural effusion, such as:
If the health care provider suspects an infection, a culture of the fluid is done to check for bacteria. The test may also be performed for hemothorax, a collection of blood in the pleura.
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