Cytology exam of pleural fluid

Alternative Names: Pleural fluid cytology

A cytology examination of pleural fluid is a laboratory test to detect cancerous cells in the pleural space, the area that surrounds the lungs.

See: Cytologic evaluation

Why is the Test Performed?

A cytology exam is used to look for cancer and precancerous cells. Your doctor may order a cytology examination of pleural fluid if you have signs of fluid buildup in the pleural space, a condition called pleural effusion. The test may also be done if you have signs of lung cancer.

How is the Test Performed?

A sample of fluid from the pleural space is needed. For information on how the sample is obtained, see: Thoracentesis.

The fluid sample is sent to a laboratory where it is examined under the microscope to determine what the cells look like, and whether they are abnormal. "Cytology" refers to the study of cells.

Preparation for the Test

The laboratory test requires no preparation. For information on how to prepare for removal of the fluid sample, see: Thoracentesis

How will the Test Feel?

See: Thoracentesis

Cytology exam of pleural fluid Risks

There are no risks involved with a cytology exam.

For information risks related to the procedure to remove a sample of pleural fluid, see: Thoracentesis

Normal Results for Cytology exam of pleural fluid

Normal cells are seen.

What Abnormal Results Mean

In an abnormal test, there are cancerous (malignant) cells. This may mean there is a cancerous tumor. This test most often detects:

• Breast cancer
• Lymphoma
• Lung cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Stomach cancer

Review Date: 9/15/2010
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Denis Hadjiliadis, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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