Abstract

In this study we tried to evaluate the diagnostic ability of Cancer ratio in patients of exudative pleural effusion. Malignant and Tubercular pleural effusion are the two most common exudative pleural effusion encountered. Both of them can present with similar clinical and radiological features. A diagnostic tool that can differentiate between them early is awaited since long time. Methods: This is study of pleural effusion (exudative) in patients admitted in Department of Respiratory Medicine Results: LDH levels in serum and ADA levels in pleural fluid, their ratio which will be known as “Cancer Ratio”. Pleural fluid ADA is assumed to be negatively correlated with malignant effusion, on the other hand serum LDH with Serum LDH: pleural fluid ADA ratio to be positively linked with patients of malignant pleural effusion. Conclusion: Serum LDH: pleural fluid ADA ratio will distinguish malignant from non-malignant effusion. This can be done very early after admission or on outpatient basis and can yield result as early as within one hour of admission. This is one of the pioneer study in India.

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