ABSTRACT
The absolute white blood cell (WBC) count is usually of limited value. Transudative effusions typically have an absolute count below 1000/mm3 with a monocyte predomi nance. Chronic exudative effusions, such as malignant and tuberculous effusions, usually have a cell count in the range of 5000/mm3. A cell count greater than 10,000/mm3 implies a significant degree of inflammation.
