Fluid Examination Routine Body Fluids is a laboratory test that evaluates body fluids such as pleural, peritoneal, or synovial fluid for their physical, chemical, and cellular characteristics. It is needed to help identify infections, inflammation, bleeding, or other underlying conditions affecting organs or body cavities. The findings can help doctors determine the cause of abnormal fluid accumulation and guide further diagnostic evaluation and treatment.
Pleural fluid is the small amount of fluid present between the layers surrounding the lungs. Excess accumulation is known as pleural effusion.
It helps investigate the cause of abnormal fluid accumulation and identify conditions such as infection, inflammation, bleeding, or malignancy.
Synovial fluid is a lubricating fluid found inside joints. Its examination can help evaluate arthritis, infection, crystals, and other joint disorders.
Abnormal cells may sometimes be detected, but a separate cytology examination may be required to specifically evaluate the fluid for malignant cells.
Cloudiness may be associated with increased cells, microorganisms, crystals, protein, or other substances. The appearance alone cannot determine the underlying cause.