Why the Test is Performed?
- Normally, very little fluid is in the pleural space. A buildup of too much fluid between the layers of the pleura is called a pleural effusion.
- The test is performed to determine the cause of the extra fluid, or to relieve symptoms from the fluid buildup.
The Test may also be Performed for the Following Conditions:
- Asbestos-Related Pleural Effusion
- Collagen Vascular Disease
- Drug Reactions
- Hemothorax
- Lung Cancer
- Pancreatitis
- Pneumonia
- Pulmonary Embolism
- Pulmonary Veno-Occlusive Disease
- Thyroid Disease
- Normal Results
- Normally the Pleural Cavity contains only a very small amount of fluid.
What do Abnormal Results Indicate?
Testing the fluid will help your health care provider determine the cause of pleural effusion. Possible causes may include:
- Cancer
- Cirrhosis
- Heart failure
- Infection
- Inflammation
- Malnutrition
- Kidney disease
If your health care provider suspects that you have an infection, a culture of the fluid may be done to test for bacteria.
Risks
Risks can Include any of the Following:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Pneumothorax
- Respiratory Distress
- Considerations
A chest x-ray is done after the procedure to detect possible complications.
Alternative Names:
- Pleural Fluid Aspiration
- Pleural Tap