Exudate

An exudate is a collection that has a relatively high specific gravity and protein concentration. They occur as the result of an inflammatory process that either increases the permeability of the surrounding membrane or disrupts the ability of resorption of fluid. They may be secondary to:

• infection, i.e. parapneumonic effusion
• inflammation, e.g. rheumatoid arthritis
• neoplasia, e.g. lung cancer

Related pathology

• pleural effusion
• empyema

See also

• transudate