Test Overview
Blood gas analyzer (electrode based method)
Pleural fluid pH is a key component in the diagnosis of pleural infections (including tuberculosis), rheumatoid pleural effusion, and esophageal rupture, as well as management of patients with pleural effusions. A low pleural fluid pH is associated with high metabolic activity in the pleural space, and provides supportive evidence for pleural infections. Additionally, in malignant pleural effusions, low pleural fluid pH correlates with a poor prognosis.
pH > or = 7.3
Note: Analytical measurement range for the pH using the blood gas analyzer (electrode based method) is 6.7-7.8 . pH results >7.8 will be reported as ".7.8", and are within the reference range.
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
Test Details
1 - 4 hrs
Specimen Requirements
Collect pleural fluid in blood gas syringe, clean plastic container or red top tube with no preservatives. Deliver to laboratory immediately after collection. Delays in the delivery of the specimen to the laboratory, and/or delayed analysis may significantly increase the pH.