Interpret the following results: Specimen: pleural effusion on a 45-year-old lung cancer patient:
-Specific gravity = 1.025
-Total protein = 4.5 g/dl
-F:Se protein = 0.9
-Fluid LD/serum LD = 0.8
-Total WBC count = 2,205/ul
What is the classification of this fluid?

Question

Interpret the following results: Specimen: pleural effusion on a 45-year-old lung cancer patient: 
-Specific gravity = 1.025
-Total protein = 4.5 g/dl
-F:Se protein = 0.9
-Fluid LD/serum LD = 0.8
-Total WBC count = 2,205/ul
What is the classification of this fluid?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The combination of a total protein >3 g/dl, an F:Se protein ratio >0.5, and a fluid LD/serum LD ratio >0.6 indicates an exudate. Additionally, the low total WBC count is not characteristic of an infection, further supporting the classification of an exudate. Therefore, the best choice is B, exudate.

Interpret the Following Results: Specimen: Pleural Effusion on a 45-Year-Old