[Relative DNA content and cycle distribution of cells in pleural effusions studied by flow-cytometry].

Pleural effusions from 28 patients were studied by cytology, chromosome and flow-cytometry. Relative cellular DNA content was measured. An estimate of ploidy as well as cycle distribution has been given. Eighteen patients suffered from malignant effusions while the rest had TB effusions. 83.3% of malignant effusion had aneuploid. The relative cellular DNA content and the cell cycle distribution can provide valuable and decisive information. The study of chromosome also help the diagnosis in addition to cytological results.