Difference between leaky and exudative fluid: Generally leaky fluid has low protein content, while exudative fluid has high protein content. Leaky fluid has less cellular components, while exudate has more cellular components. Leaky fluid has a clearer appearance and is not prone to coagulation, while exudate has a cloudy appearance and is prone to coagulation. Leaky fluid has a lower density; exudate has a higher density. Leaky fluid is commonly associated with impaired circulation; exudate is commonly associated with inflammation. The clinical distinction between leakage and exudate can clarify the etiology of the disease occurring in the patient. For example, leakage is often caused by non-inflammatory conditions, such as those caused by heart failure, cirrhosis, venous stasis, etc.; whereas exudate is caused by inflammatory factors, such as inflammatory effusion, inflammatory tumors or chemical or physical irritation, etc.