Albumin, Pleural Fluid
Test Code
17413
82042
In-home collection is not available in your area through Quest Mobile.
Clinical Significance
Albumin, Pleural Fluid - The serous cavities surrounding the abdomen, heart and lungs will accumulate fluids, called effusions, when their production or resorption is not in balance. The serum-effusion albumin gradient is used to classify whether an effusion is a transudate or an exudate.
Test Resources
None found for this test
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Test Details
Methodology
Nephelometry
Reference Range(s)
Because of the wide range of Albumin levels seen in serous body fluids, results are best evaluated by using the serum-effusion albumin gradient (serum albumin result minus the serous body fluid albumin result) to differentiate whether the fluid is a transudate or an exudate.
A gradient value of >1.2 g/dL is seen in transudates.
A gradient value of ≤1.2 g/dL is seen in exudates.
A gradient value of >1.2 g/dL is seen in transudates.
A gradient value of ≤1.2 g/dL is seen in exudates.
Preferred Specimen(s)
1 mL pleural fluid
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Collection Instructions
Freeze specimen and ship on dry ice
Transport Container
Sterile transport tube
Transport Temperature
Frozen
Specimen Stability
- Room temperature: 7 days
- Refrigerated: 7 days
- Frozen: 28 days
Reject Criteria
Gross hemolysis
Setup Schedule
1 mL pleural fluid
0.5 mL
Freeze specimen and ship on dry ice
Sterile transport tube
Frozen
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days
Gross hemolysis