Thoracentesis
From DrKoop's partner site on incontinence, IncontinenceNetwork.com
Alternative Names Pleural fluid aspiration; Pleural tap Normal Values Normally the pleural cavity contains only a very small amount of fluid. What abnormal results mean The analysis of the fluid will indicate possible causes of pleural effusion such as infection, cancer, heart failure, cirrhosis, and kidney disease. If infection is suspected, a culture of the fluid is often done to determine whether microorganisms are present and if so, to identify them. Additional conditions under which the test may be performed include the following:
Review Date: 08/07/2006  advertisement
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