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Guided Chest Tube Fluid Protein-to-Albumin Ratio (Qualitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the relative amounts of protein and albumin in fluid collected from a chest tube, often used to assess conditions like pleural effusion or infection in the chest cavity.

Quick summary

["Understanding protein balance in chest tube fluid can help guide treatment for fluid buildup or infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87113-7
Short code
Guided Chest Tun CVC wo port place
Synonyms
Guided Chest Tun CVC wo port place
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
imaging-modality
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

A doctor may order this test if you have a chest tube in place after surgery, trauma, or medical conditions like pneumonia, lung infections, or fluid accumulation in the chest (pleural effusion). It helps evaluate whether fluid is leaking from blood vessels, infected, or part of a larger health issue like inflammation or cancer.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. The fluid is collected directly from the chest tube during a routine check or drainage procedure. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

The test compares protein and albumin levels qualitatively (qualitative means it identifies relative amounts rather than exact values). High protein levels without albumin dominance may suggest infection or inflammation, while a higher albumin ratio could indicate fluid leakage from blood vessels.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to monitor conditions such as empyema (infected pleural fluid), pleural effusion (fluid buildup), or post-surgical drainage to ensure proper healing and detect complications like infection or bleeding.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

How long will I need to wait for my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No dietary restrictions apply. You can eat and drink normally, as the test only involves fluid collection from your chest tube.
What does a high or low protein-to-albumin ratio indicate?
A high protein-to-albumin ratio may signal infection, inflammation, or fluid leakage from blood vessels. A lower ratio could suggest less severe leakage or other underlying conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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