Cytology Q&A 13

This question was provided by Manson Publishing as part of the OVAL Project. See more Cytology Q&A.

Abdominal fluid is aspirated from a 14-year-old neutered male Labrador-cross dog. Analysis reveals: TP = 10 g/l; erythrocytes = 10 × 109/l; NCC = 0.4 × 109/l. A cytospin preparation is prepared and smears made.

Question	Answer		Article
What cell types are seen (Wright–Giemsa, ×100 oil)?	A small lymphocyte (centre), a monocyte (top) and two macrophages. There was a low density of nucleated cells in the cytospin, a finding that would be expected based on the NCC.		Link to Article
How would you classify this fluid?	A transudate.		Link to Article
What considerations/comments would you have regarding this classification?	Transudates are classically associated with hypoproteinaemia/hypoalbuminaemia. Albumin levels are usually <15–18 g/l before effusion will form due to hypoalbuminaemina alone. Transudates may also be seen with early cardiac insufficiency or other noninflammatory conditions. In this case, evaluation of serum chemistry for TP and albumin should be recommended as an initial step.		Link to Article