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Transudates in malignancy: still a role for pleural fluid
Tanseli E Gonlugur1, Ugur Gonlugur
1Canakkale State Hospital, Department of Chest Diseases, Canakkale, Turkey. tefeoglu@gmail.com
Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore
|November 8, 2008
Summary
Cytological examination of pleural fluid is crucial for identifying malignant processes, even in cases presenting as transudative effusions. This study highlights the necessity of cytology to rule out cancer in unexplained effusions.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Malignant pleural effusions can present as either transudates or exudates.
- Distinguishing between these fluid types is critical for diagnosis and patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the distribution of transudates and exudates in pathologically confirmed malignant pleural effusions.
- To emphasize the importance of cytologic studies in patients with transudative effusions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 148 patients with malignant or paramalignant pleural effusion over 10 years.
- Included patients with malignant mesothelioma, metastatic disease, and paramalignant effusions.
Main Results:
- Malignant pleural effusions were transudative in 1.5% of malignant mesotheliomas, 6.8% of metastatic diseases, and 11.1% of paramalignant effusions.
- The study included 148 subjects (55 female, 93 male) with a mean age of 62 years.
Conclusions:
- Cytological examination of pleural fluid is essential for diagnosing malignant processes in patients with unexplained transudative effusions.
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