Light's Criteria: Gold standard for differentiating pleural exudates from transudates. ≥ 1 of 3 criteria met = exudate. Sensitivity 98%, Specificity 83%.
Guidelines & Evidence
Verified
Last Review: 2026
When to Use
When to Use
Mandatory first step in the evaluation of any new pleural effusion via diagnostic thoracentesis.
Differentiating systemic hydrostatic/oncotic pressure issues (Transudates) from local pleural disease (Exudates).
Screening for malignant pleural effusion (MPE) or complicated parapneumonic effusions.
