Ascitic Fluid
Description:
Ascities is the collection of fluid within the peritoneal cavity. Microbiology will perform microscopy (cell count and Gram Stain), isolation, identification and susceptibility of any organism likely to be pathogenic. Microscopy results are available within 4 hours of receipt of sample, negative culture results will be issued at 48 hrs, positive cultures 2-3 days. Please indicate where high risk organisms are implicated (such as TB).
Clinical details:
Small amounts of ascities may be asymptomatic but as the volume increases the patient may experience abdominal distension and discomfort with respiratory distress in extreme cases. Causes of ascites can be non-peritoneal (i.e. Cirrhosis, hepatic congestion, ovarian disease) and peritoneal (i.e. bacterial infection, tuberculosis peritonitis, fungal disease, cancer).
Synonyms or keywords:
ascities
Department:
Location:
Last updated: 27/11/2017
