Pleural Fluid Analysis
Thoracentesis fluid — Light criteria, chemistry, cytology, and microbiology
Arjun Reddy, 62M — UHID: UH-2026-0838
Collected: 20 Jun 2026 · Right pleural space · Indication: Right pleural effusion — RLL consolidation, post-pneumonia · Volume aspirated: 900 mL
Complicated Parapneumonic Exudate
| Parameter | Result | Reference | Flag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Turbid, yellow | Clear / straw | Elevated |
| Protein (Pleural) | 4.8 g/dL | — | Elevated |
| Protein (Serum) | 6.2 g/dL | — | Normal |
| P:S Protein ratio | 0.77 (> 0.5 = exudate) | < 0.5 transudate | Exudate |
| LDH (Pleural) | 480 IU/L | — | Elevated |
| LDH (Serum) | 280 IU/L | — | Normal |
| P:S LDH ratio | 1.71 (> 0.6 = exudate) | < 0.6 transudate | Exudate |
| Glucose (Pleural) | 38 mg/dL | 60-100 mg/dL | Low |
| pH | 7.12 | 7.30–7.45 | Low |
| WBC count | 18,400 cells/µL (90% neutrophils) | < 1000 cells/µL | Elevated |
| RBC count | 800 cells/µL | < 10,000 cells/µL | Normal |
| Cytology | Pending (sent) | No malignant cells | Normal |
| AFB smear | Not seen | Negative | Normal |
| Culture (aerobic) | Pending 48h | No growth | Normal |
Light Criteria: Exudate (protein ratio 0.77, LDH ratio 1.71 — both exceed criteria). Low glucose (38) + low pH (7.12) — complicated parapneumonic effusion, likely developing empyema. Indication for chest drain (ICC) + antibiotics. Culture pending. Decortication may be required if loculated.