[Chromosome analysis performed in 176 cases of pleural effusions of various types]

Reference is made to the results of a chromosome analysis conducted on pleural liquid sediments in 71 cases of neoplastic effusion and 105 transudative and inflammatory cases. Numeric and morphological karyotype alterations conclusively indicative of the neoplastic origin of the effusion were observed in 79% cases where a tumour was actually present, and in none of the non-neoplastic cases. The diagnostic sensitivity of the examination was compared with that of the Pap-test, which gave positive results in 63% of cases. When both methods were used, diagnosis was possible in 90% of cases. Some suggestions are made for checking with other studies on the possibilities offered by chromosome as a means of prognosis as well as diagnosis.