Calciumplrscnc
A test that measures the amount of calcium in the fluid surrounding the lungs to help diagnose the cause of fluid buildup.
{"This test measures calcium levels in fluid collected between the lungs and chest wall","It helps doctors determine if pleural fluid is caused by a benign condition or a more serious disease like cancer","The test is performed on a sample of pleural fluid obtained through thoracentesis","Results are compared with blood calcium levels to provide additional diagnostic information"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14416-2
- Short code
- CA-PLEU
- Synonyms
- Calcium Plr-sCnc
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Plain red top tube (serum separator) or lavender (EDTA) tube for fluid collection
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 8.5
- Ref high
- 10.5
- Critical range
- 6 not specified – 14 not specified
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Colorimetric (Arsenazo III) or Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE)
- CPT
- 82310
- SNOMED
- 398540006
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL minimum; 5-10 mL preferred for comprehensive analysis
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 72 hours; Avoid freezing
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 24–48 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Pleural Fluid Calcium test measures the concentration of calcium in pleural fluid—the liquid that collects in the space between your lungs and chest wall (pleural space). This test is part of a larger group of tests called pleural fluid analysis, which helps doctors understand why fluid is accumulating in your chest.
Why is it performed?
Your doctor may order this test if you have pleural effusion (excess fluid in the pleural space). The test helps distinguish between different types of effusion: transudates (usually caused by heart failure, liver disease, or kidney problems) and exudates (often caused by infection, cancer, or inflammation). High calcium levels in pleural fluid may indicate certain types of cancer, particularly lung cancer or mesothelioma.
How is the sample collected?
The pleural fluid sample is collected through a procedure called thoracentesis. During this procedure, a doctor numbs the area and inserts a thin needle between your ribs to withdraw fluid from the pleural space. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What do the results mean?
Results are typically reported in millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Your doctor will interpret the results in conjunction with other tests and your overall clinical condition. While specific reference ranges may vary, significantly elevated calcium levels in pleural fluid (compared to blood levels) may warrant further investigation for underlying conditions.
Reference range
Adult: 8.5-10.5 mg/dLnot specified
None required; specimen obtained by thoracentesis
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the thoracentesis procedure painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What happens if my results are abnormal?
Sources
- 1
- 2
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy