The Role of Cytologic Evaluation of Pleural Fluid in the Diagnosis of Malignant Mesothelioma

Abstract

A positive or suspicious cytologic result was associated with a decreased median time to diagnosis. Unfortunately, the sensitivity of cytologic examination for a diagnosis of MM was only 32%. Until better diagnostic techniques are developed, we recommend immediate pleural biopsy in patients in whom MM is suspected and cytologic evaluation of pleural fluid gives negative results.