Clinical use
Identification of bacterial and fungal pathogens in ascitic fluid samples.
Background
Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum, the serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering the abdominal viscera. Primary bacterial peritonitis accounts for <1% of bacterial peritonitis and occurs spontaneously without evidence of intra-abdominal organ perforation. It is most frequently seen in children and particularly those with nephrotic syndrome. Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is the infection of pre-existing ascites in the absence of known intra-abdominal infection, and is a frequent, serious complication of cirrhosis and other liver disease. Infection is almost always mono-microbial, usually resulting from haematogenous spread. Secondary bacterial peritonitis usually arises following gastrointestinal leakage within the peritoneal cavity. This leakage may follow perforation of diseased viscera or abdominal trauma. The most common cause in western countries is acute appendicitis. Other causes include perforated peptic ulcer, diverticular disease of the colon, pancreatitis and cholecystitis and as a complication of CAPD.
Patient preparation
- Use aseptic technique. Collect specimens in appropriate CE marked leak proof containers and transport in sealed plastic bags.
- Collect specimens before antimicrobial therapy where possible.
Specimen requirements
Sterile white top universal
Minimum volume
1ml
Limitations & restrictions
Samples must be delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible to allow for the cell count to be performed and reported within the two-hour time frame.
Turnaround time
Up to 10 days
Analysing laboratory
Microbiology Lab, James Cook University Hospital, Marton Road, TS4 3BW
Additional information
A white cell count will be performed on all ascitic fluids received by Microbiology.