Skip to content

Guided drainage fluid protein concentration (mass concentration)

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

This test measures the protein content in fluid collected from a guided drainage procedure, such as a chest tube or other drainage site. Proteins in drainage fluid can help assess conditions like infection, inflammation, or fluid accumulation.

Quick summary

["Protein levels in drainage fluid may indicate underlying health concerns requiring medical attention."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107304-8
Short code
RF Guided BDs+GB drainage
Synonyms
RF Guided BDs+GB drainage
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rf
CPT
86430
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

What Is This Test For?

Guided drainage fluid is often collected to diagnose or monitor conditions such as pneumonia, pleural effusion, or other fluid collections in the chest. Measuring protein concentration helps clinicians determine the cause of fluid buildup or infection and guide treatment decisions.

Common Conditions Monitored

High protein levels may suggest conditions like **empyema** (infected pleural fluid), **malignant pleural effusion**, or severe inflammation. Low protein levels could indicate conditions like **pneumothorax** (collapsed lung) or certain types of fluid leaks.

How Is This Test Performed?

A healthcare provider will collect fluid from a drainage site (e.g., chest tube) using sterile techniques. The fluid is sent to the lab, where protein concentration is measured using a specialized analytical method.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on clinical context, including symptoms, imaging, and other test results. Elevated protein levels often point to infection or inflammation, while lower levels may suggest other causes like air in the pleural space.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of fluid buildup in the lungs. It helps assess whether drainage is needed and guides treatment for conditions like infections or fluid collections.
What are the normal results?
There are no standard reference ranges for drainage fluid protein concentration alone, as results vary based on the specific condition and clinical situation. Your provider will compare the result to your overall health and symptoms.
How soon will I get 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.
  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