Expected cellular findings (mesothelial cells, some inflammatory cells)

Increased volume and/or cellular distribution

Mesothelial cells increased (reactive, atypical, or malignant)

In regard to volume and distribution:
Many cell types arranged in very dense sheets or groups (suggests malignancy)

Reactive mesothelial cells (large, nucleoli, cytoplasm)

Precancerous cells (often large, pleomorphic)

Unexpected cellular and non-cellular findings

Practical Approach to Serous EffusionsImmunocytochemical studies, clinical and radiographic correlations requiredAn algorithmic approach to serous effusions

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