Pleural Fluid Estimation and Tubercular Infection in the People admitted with Pleural Effusion: A five Year Survey

Abstract

Purpose of study: We prospectively conducted this study to evaluate the diagnostic value of Pleural fluid estimation and find the rate of tubercular infection in the people with pleural effusion in city of Lahore. Pleural TB is a common form of extrapulmonary disease and may occur in the presence or absence of pulmonary parenchymal disease on the chest radiograph.

Study Design: Prospective Study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in the Biochemistry Department, FJMC, Lahore from May 2010 to Nov. 2010.

Materials and Methods: This study to evaluate the diagnostic value of Pleural fluid estimation and tubercular infection in the people with pleural effusion. All patients aged 22 years and older with clinical and radiographic findings consistent with pleural effusion due to TB admitted to the hospital were evaluated consecutively. The studies were performed on pleural fluid samples: glucose and protein were estimated. Specific gravity was calculated. Cell count, differential cell count, bacterial culture, acid-fast bacilli smear were performed using standard procedures. Specimen was cultured, if effusion contains more than 150 WBC/cumm.

Results: It was observed that the level of fluid glucose was increased in both sexes as compared to the normal reported values. Level of fluid protein was more in both sexes as compared to the normal reported values. However  level of pH was neutral in both sexes. Present study found that pleural TB is still a major cause of pleural effusion in the city of Lahore, and microbiological and biochemical investigation may be helpful in diagnosing the disease.