Fluid Triglycerides
- Sample Type
- Standard
- Fasting
- No
- Unit
- mg/dL
This test measures triglyceride concentration in aspirated body fluids (pleural, ascitic, or pericardial). In Fluid Biochemical Analysis, it is the primary diagnostic tool for identifying a chylous effusion (chylothorax or chylous ascites). A milky fluid with high triglycerides (>110 mg/dL) confirms the presence of chyle, typically resulting from thoracic duct leakage, trauma, or lymphatic obstruction (often by lymphoma).
Check Your Result
Check Your Result
Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.
Why Context Matters
Pseudochylous effusions (caused by cholesterol, not triglycerides) can look similar but have low triglyceride levels. Also, if a patient has been fasting for a long period, triglyceride levels in the chyle may be misleadingly lower than the diagnostic threshold.
Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.
Clinical References
Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Fluid Triglycerides:
Official Sources
- Chylothorax: pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management-a comprehensive review - PubMedpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Pleural Effusion - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelfncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Research & Guidelines
- PubMed: Fluid Triglycerides Clinical GuidelinesNCBI / PubMed
Related Indicators
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS
Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience
Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.
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