Body fluid protein test
Quick answer: This test measures protein in a fluid sample taken from a body space, such as around the lungs or in the abdomen. It helps doctors work out why fluid has collected, for example due to infection, inflammation, heart, liver or kidney problems.
- SampleFluid
- TakesUsually 15 to 30 minutes for the procedure
- Before the testThe fluid sample is collected by a doctor during a procedure.
How the test is done
- 1The doctor explains the procedure and cleans the skin over the fluid
- 2The area is numbed with local anaesthetic
- 3A needle draws fluid from the chest, abdomen or another space
- 4A blood sample is often taken at the same time to compare
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs, so compare your result with the range printed on your report and discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high fluid protein can suggest the fluid is caused by infection, inflammation, TB or cancer, while a low protein suggests it is due to heart, liver or kidney problems. Doctors often compare it with blood protein to decide.
Who usually has this test
People with fluid around the lungs, in the abdomen or in a joint, where the cause needs to be found.
Risks and aftercare
The needle site may be sore or leak a little fluid for a day; tell your doctor about fever, increasing pain or breathlessness.
Names and options
Also called: pleural fluid protein, ascitic fluid protein
Listed by the hospital as
- PROTEINS, FLUID
Questions about this test
What is the difference between a transudate and an exudate?
A transudate is fluid with low protein that usually leaks because of pressure changes, as in heart or liver failure. An exudate has higher protein and usually comes from infection, inflammation or cancer.
Why is a blood sample taken along with the fluid?
Comparing protein and LDH in the fluid with the blood helps doctors classify the fluid more reliably than fluid results alone.
Is the fluid removed during the test?
Sometimes. A small amount is taken for testing, and if there is a lot of fluid causing symptoms, more may be drained at the same time to relieve breathlessness or swelling.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.