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===Cytology===
===Cytology===
Definitive diagnosis of any effusion relies on collection of a sample and cytological analysis. A refractometer can be used to measure the specific gravity of the fluid. The following features are typical of a modified transudate:
Definitive diagnosis of any effusion relies on collection of a sample and cytological analysis. A refractometer can be used to measure the specific gravity of the fluid. The following features are typical of a modified transudate:
{| cellpadding="10" cellspacing="0" border="1"
| Appearance
| Yellow to serosanguinous, turbid fluid
|-
| Specific gravity
| 1.018 - 1.030
|-
| Total protein
| 25 - 50g/l
|-
| Nucleated cells
| 0.3 - 5.5 x10e9/L (up to 7 x 10e9/L), of which the majority are [[Mesothelial cells|mesothelial cells]], [[Macrophages|macrophages]], non-degenerate neutrophils and small [[Lymphocytes|lymphocytes]]
|-}
If the effusion has been caused by a neoplasm, exfoliated cells may be observed in the fluid but this is unlikely to be useful in identifying the origin of the tumour.
==Treatment==
Unless the effusion is causing clinical signs, it is generally not advisable to drain it as it will quickly recur and because drainage depletes body protein reserves. However, pleural or pericardial effusions should certainly be drained in animals with dyspnoea or signs of heart failure.
Diuretics are often used as first-line therapeutic agents for congestive heart failure and these will help to prevent fluid accumulation in body cavities. Consideration should be given to the use of spironolactone because, as well as sparing body potassium, it acts to prevent further activation of the RAAS. Bodyweight and abdominal girth can be measured regularly (including by owners) to give a crude estimate of the effectiveness of diuretic therapy.
The presence of neoplastic cells in an effusion should prompt further investigation through diagnostic imaging or exploratory surgery.
[[Category:Effusions]]
[[Category:Effusions]]
[[Category:To_Do_-_James]]
[[Category:To_Do_-_James]]
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[[Category:Dog]][[Category:Cat]][[Category:Horse]][[Category:Cattle]]