Two simple calculations could tell cancer from TB in fluid around the lungs
NCT ID NCT07766876
First seen Aug 17, 2026 · Last updated Aug 17, 2026
Summary
This study looks at whether two simple calculations, called Cancer Ratio and Cancer Ratio Plus, can help doctors tell the difference between fluid around the lungs caused by cancer and fluid caused by tuberculosis. These calculations use results from routine blood and fluid tests. The study will include 120 adults with either malignant or tuberculous pleural effusion. Researchers will check how accurate these calculations are compared to standard diagnosis.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Cancer Ratio and Cancer Ratio Plus (diagnostic calculations using serum LDH, pleural fluid ADA, and lymphocyte percentage)
- What this could lead to
- If these simple calculations prove accurate, they could offer a faster, cheaper, and less invasive way to tell malignant from tuberculous pleural effusion, potentially reducing the need for more invasive biopsies.
- What could go wrong
- This is a single-center observational study, so results may not apply broadly. The markers' accuracy is still unproven, and they may not clearly distinguish all cases, especially in mixed or atypical presentations.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
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