Tumor necrosis factor alpha in experimental empyema thoracis

Abstract

We describe a simple and effective rat model of empyema. TNF-α levels above 150 pg/ml in the pleural fluid are useful to confirm empyema, but cannot predict the severity of the inflammatory response. TNF-α levels below 150 pg/ml are useful to rule out empyema.

Accuracy of complement activation product levels to detect infected pleural effusion in rats

“…Several experimental models of empyema are available, with different animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, and rats . Previous studies have shown that rat models are useful to evaluate diagnostic tests, and also that these models effectively reproduce infected pleural effusion .…”