Sensitivity of PDL-1-analysis From Pleural Effusion in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Sensitivity of PDL-1-analysis From Pleural Effusion in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

This is a prospective diagnostic pilot study to create hypotheses regarding immunocytochemistry (ICC) PD-L1 analysis of pleural effusions in NSCLC patients as compared to the reference standard of PD-L1 immunohistochemistry (IHC). This comparison will be done to assess sensitivity and specificity of PD-L1 detection by ICC in pleural effusions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Presence of malignant pleural effusion with indication for pleural puncture and thoracoscopy
• Confirmed diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer according to ERS guidelines
• Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy and/or lactation
• Acute and life-threatening illness (instable angina pectoris, acute pulmonary arterial embolism, myocardial infarction, etc.)
• Any contraindication to undergo thoracoscopy (e.g. anticoagulation therapy which cannot be discontinued for the procedure)
• Any medical, psychological or other condition impairing the patient's ability to provide informed consent