Pleural fluid smear
Pleural fluid smear is a laboratory procedure to check for bacteria, fungi, or abnormal cells in the fluid that may be found in the space around the lungs (called a pleural effusion).
Why is the Test Performed?
The test is performed if you have a pleural effusion and its cause is not known, especially if the health care provider suspects an infection or cancer.
How is the Test Performed?
A health care or laboratory technician provider examines a sample of pleural fluid under the microscope. If the smear detects bacteria or fungi, other methods may be used to further identify those organisms.
How will the Test Feel?
The sample is obtained through a procedure called thoracentesis. For information about this test and its risks, see thoracentesis.
Pleural fluid smear Risks
See: Thoracentesis
Normal Results for Pleural fluid smear
Normally, no bacteria, fungi, or cancer cells are present in the pleural fluid.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Positive results may indicate that infection, or cancer cells, is present. Other tests can help identify the specific type of infection or cancer. Sometimes, the test may show abnormalities from conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus.
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Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and 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.
Copyright 2012 A.D.A.M., Inc.
