Correct!
1. The pleural fluid analysis indicates the presence of an exudate
The presence of an exudative pleural effusion is favored when 1 or more of the following criteria are met: the pleural fluid / serum LDH > 0.6 , when the pleural fluid LDH > 2/3 upper normal serum LDH value, or when the pleural fluid / serum total protein > 0.5. An exudative pleural effusion etiology is also favored when pleural fluid cholesterol concentrations exceed 45 - 65 mg/dL. A chylous pleural effusion is suggested when pleural fluid triglyceride concentrations exceed 100 mg/dL. A pseudochylous pleural effusion may be present when pleural fluid cholesterol concentrations exceed 200 mg/dL.
Review of the enhanced chest CT (Figure 4) showed no evidence of pulmonary embolism, and the patient’s coagulation studies were normal.
Figure 4. Unenhanced chest CT performed prior to thoracoscopic surgery shows a similar appearance of the moderate-sized right pleural effusion, with mild smooth pleural thickening (arrowheads) again evident.
Based on the information thus far, which of the following is the most appropriate course of action? (Click on the correct answer to be directed to the tenth of seventeen pages)