The Importance of Plural Fluid Studies

Dave: I feel like that's often overlooked now, even with lines and stuff too. One of the first things I wish I sent when I have a malignant effusion or a fusion of unknown etiology is a triglyceride level. Total protein and LDH is really essential. You don't know what it's from. And you may be in this position where you're debating para-noumonic versus malignant,. which is very common. The other piece that might be interesting is whether or not triglycerides should be sent routinely.