Protein, Total, Fluid

Provide fluid type and source.

The reference range for this body fluid has not been established.  The test result must be integrated into the clinical context for interpretation. This test was developed, and its performance characteristics determined by the Core Laboratories of the McLendon Clinical Laboratories, UNC Health.  This test has not been cleared or approved by the FDA.  The laboratory is regulated under CAP and CLIA as qualified to perform high-complexity testing.  This test is to be used for clinical purposes and should not be regarded as investigational or for research:

• Peritoneal fluid Total Protein >3 g/dL may indicate transudates while fluid Total Protein <3 g/dL may indicate exudates.  Serum ascites albumin gradient measurement is now preferred.
• A pleural fluid/serum ratio >0.5 suggests an exudate.  Pleural effusions related to Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia and multiple myeloma typically have protein concentrations from 7.0-8.0 g/dL