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Cytology Exam Of Pleural Fluid



See: Cytologic evaluation

Alternative Names

Pleural fluid cytology

How the test is performed



How to prepare for the test


How the test will feel

See: Thoracentesis

Why the test is performed

A cytology exam is often used to look for cancers and precancerous changes. Your doctor may order a cytology examination of pleural fluid if you have signs of cancer, or to find the cause of fluid buildup in the pleural space, a condition called pleural effusion.

Normal Values

Normal cells are seen.

What abnormal results mean


  • Breast cancer
  • Lymphoma
  • Lung cancer

This test may also be done for cancer that has spread to the lung.

What the risks are

There are no risks involved with a cytology exam.



Abeloff MD, Armitage JO, Niederhuber JE, Kastan MB, McKenna WG. Clinical Oncology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingstone; 2004.

Light RW. The undiagnosed pleural effusion. Clin Chest Med. 2006;27:309-319.

Review Date: 9/13/2008

