The procedure for obtaining pleural fluid for cell count involves a process called thoracentesis.
Thoracentesis Explained
Thoracentesis is a medical procedure used to remove fluid from the pleural space, which is the area between the lungs and the chest wall. This fluid is then sent to a lab for analysis, including a cell count to identify different types of cells present.
Steps Involved in Pleural Fluid Cell Count:
While the provided reference focuses on obtaining the pleural fluid, the cell count itself is a lab procedure performed after thoracentesis.
- Thoracentesis Procedure: A needle is inserted into the pleural space to withdraw fluid. ([Reference: Information regarding thoracentesis to obtain pleural fluid])
- Fluid Collection: The fluid is collected in a sterile container.
- Laboratory Analysis: The fluid is sent to a laboratory for analysis, where a cell count is performed.
- Cell Count: Technicians use specialized equipment to count the number of different types of cells in the fluid (e.g., red blood cells, white blood cells, cancerous cells).
- Differential Count: This provides a breakdown of the different types of white blood cells present.
- Results: The results help doctors diagnose conditions like infections, cancer, or other inflammatory diseases affecting the pleura.
What The Cell Count Reveals
The cell count helps in identifying:
- Infection: Increased white blood cell count.
- Cancer: Presence of malignant cells.
- Bleeding: Elevated red blood cell count.
