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Peritoneal fluid culture

Culture - peritoneal fluid

 

Peritoneal fluid culture is a laboratory test performed on a sample of peritoneal fluid to detect bacteria or fungi that cause infection ( peritonitis ).

Peritoneal fluid is the fluid from the peritoneal cavity, a space between the wall of the abdomen and the organs inside.

How the Test is Performed

 

A sample of peritoneal fluid is needed. This sample is obtained using a procedure called an abdominal tap (paracentesis).

A sample of fluid is sent to the laboratory for Gram stain and culture. The sample is checked to see if bacteria grows.

 

How to Prepare for the Test

 

Empty your bladder before your abdominal tap procedure.

 

How the Test will Feel

 

A small area in your lower abdomen will be cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). You will also receive local anesthesia. You will feel pressure as the needle is inserted. If a large amount of fluid is withdrawn, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded.

 

Why the Test is Performed

 

The test is done to find out if there is an infection in the peritoneal space.

 

Normal Results

 

Peritoneal fluid is a sterile fluid, so normally no bacteria or fungi are present.

 

What Abnormal Results Mean

 

The growth of any microorganism, such as bacteria or fungi, from peritoneal fluid is abnormal and indicates peritonitis.

 

Risks

 

There is a small risk of the needle puncturing the bowel, bladder, or a blood vessel in the abdomen. This may result in bowel perforation , bleeding, and infection.

 

Considerations

 

The diagnosis of peritonitis is based on more than just the peritoneal fluid culture (which may be negative even if you have peritonitis).

 

 

References

Garcia-Tsao G. Cirrhosis and its sequelae. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman's Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 156.

Runyon BA . Ascites and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2010:chap 91.

 
  • Peritoneal culture - illustration

    A peritoneal culture is a procedure where peritoneal fluid is withdrawn with a needle from the peritoneal cavity. The peritoneal cavity is the space between the two membranes lining the abdominal cavity. The test is done to determine the cause of ascites, fluid accumulation in the peritoneal space.

    Peritoneal culture

    illustration

    • Peritoneal culture - illustration

      A peritoneal culture is a procedure where peritoneal fluid is withdrawn with a needle from the peritoneal cavity. The peritoneal cavity is the space between the two membranes lining the abdominal cavity. The test is done to determine the cause of ascites, fluid accumulation in the peritoneal space.

      Peritoneal culture

      illustration

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          Tests for Peritoneal fluid culture

           

           

          Review Date: 11/20/2014

          Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Aria Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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