[Cytologic, biochemical and immunologic parameters of pleural effusions. I. Criteria for differentiating transudates...

In 158 patients with pleural effusions the authors assessed 7 cytological, 26 biochemical and 6 immunological parameters in the pleural fluid. Using Light's criteria in 22 patients the fluid was a transudate, in 136 an exudate. The differences between the mean values of studied parameters were analysed. Basing on this the most characteristic cut of values were calculated. Each parameter was calculated for its sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy in differentiating the nature of the pleural fluid. The authors found the cytological parameters and protein levels in pleural fluid differentiate best exudates from transudates.