[Cholesterol in pleural effusions: a differential diagnostic aid].

In this prospective study, 70 patients with pleural effusions were investigated; the underlying disease was identified in 62 of these cases. Employing pre-defined criteria, 31 effusions were identified to be transudates, and 31 exsudates. The total protein, LDH and cholesterol were determined in order to establish their significance for the differentiation between transudates and exsudates.

Cholesterol in pleural effusions. A diagnostic aid.

In this prospective study of 70 patients with pleural effusion, the underlying disease could be identified in 62 cases. By predefined criteria, 31 of these effusions were classified as transudates and 31 as exudates. Pleural fluid protein content, LDH activity and cholesterol level were measured to investigate their utility in differentiating the exudates from the transudates.