Pulmonology• Updated 21 October 2026
Pleural Fluid Analysis
A test of fluid removed from around the lungs to find the cause, such as TB, infection or cancer.
Results: Same day to a few days Specimen: Pleural fluid
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To find the cause of fluid around the lungs and relieve breathlessness.
What It Measures
Protein, cells, ADA, culture and cancer cells.
Preparation
Usually no preparation.
Overview
In India, TB is a common cause; ADA levels help.
Removing fluid can ease breathlessness.
What It Measures
Cells and protein
Cause clues.
ADA
TB marker.
Cytology
Cancer cells.
How It's Performed
- 01
Position
Sit leaning forward.
- 02
Numb
Local anaesthetic.
- 03
Needle
Fluid drawn, often with ultrasound guidance.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Pleural Fluid Analysis(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine