The Comparative Diagnostic Accuracy of Cancer-cell Detection Obtained with Ficoll-Hypaque® Gradient Separation and Standard Centrifugation Technics on Body-cavity Fluids

Ninety-two consecutive samples of body-cavity fluids from patients with confirmed or suspected cancer were compared for accuracy of diagnosis using a Ficoll® gradient test and a standard centrifugation test. The percentage of positive test results was 76% (70/92) with the Ficoll test and 64% (59/92) with the routine test. The Ficoll and routine tests also gave a significant difference in the classification of malignancy, with the latter test giving a significantly higher proportion of negative or inconclusive test results. Besides the improved test results, the Ficoll gradient test has the further advantages of being less expensive and requiring only standard laboratory equipment. Elimination of blood and cellular debris by the procedure results in quick and easy cytologic screening. The Ficoll test is strongly recommended for those clinical fluids suspected to be positive for malignancy, especially where the routine test is negative or inconclusive.