| Routine tests |
| Cell count and differential |
| Albumin concentration |
| Total protein concentration |
| Optional tests |
| Culture in blood culture bottles |
| Glucose concentration |
| Lactate dehydrogenase concentration |
| Gram stain |
| Amylase concentration |
| Unusual tests |
| Tuberculosis smear and culture |
| Adenosine deaminase activity |
| Cytology |
| Triglyceride concentration |
| Bilirubin concentration |
| Serum pro-brain natriuretic peptide |
| Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) concentration |
| Alkaline phosphatase concentration |
