Use of Circulating Tumor Cell Technology (CELLSEARCH) for the Diagnosis of Malignant Pleural Effusions

Abstract

The pleural CELLSEARCH assay may serve as a valuable addition to traditional cytology and provide useful information regarding the diagnosis of malignant effusions. Major advantages include that it is well standardized, relatively inexpensive, has a rapid turnaround, and is easily available. Our data support the conduct of additional studies of this approach to assist in the diagnosis of malignant PEs.