Cytology exam of pleural fluid
A cytology exam of pleural fluid is a laboratory test to detect cancer cells and certain other cells in the area that surrounds the lungs. This is called the pleural space.
How the Test is 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.
How to Prepare for the Test
The laboratory test requires no preparation. For information on how to prepare for removal of the fluid sample, see: Thoracentesis
How the Test Will Feel
See: Thoracentesis
Why the Test is Performed
A cytology exam is used to look for cancer and precancerous cells, or more rarely for other conditions (like seeing systemic erythematosous cells).
Your doctor may order this test if you have signs of fluid buildup in area surrounding the lungs, a condition called pleural effusion. The test may also be done if you have signs of lung cancer.
Normal Results
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
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
Alternative Names
Pleural fluid cytology
References
Broaddus C, Light RW. Pleural effusion. In: Mason RJ, Broaddus CV, Martin TR, et al, eds. Textbook of Respiratory Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010:chap 73.
Celli BR. Diseases of the diaphragm, chest wall, pleura, and mediastinum. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 99.
Update Date: 8/30/2012
Updated 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. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.
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