Ascitic Fluid Analysis Test Overview

Ascitic fluid analysis test is used by doctors to check for conditions like liver cirrhosis. Ascites is a condition where fluid accumulates in the peritoneal space in your abdomen around internal organs due to underlying health conditions. The goal of the test is to analyse the fluid on different parameters such as presence of blood, turbidity, and colour.

The ascitic fluid analysis is also performed to differentiate between two types of peritoneal fluid namely: transudate (clear fluid) and exudate (pus-filled fluid). Apart from diagnostic reasons, this ascitic fluid test is also used by doctors to remove excess fluid from the abdominal region of a patient. The ascitic fluid analysis can also help with internal bleeding assessments.

When is an Ascitic Fluid Analysis Test Prescribed?

An ascitic fluid analysis test is prescribed by doctors when patients are experiencing symptoms like lack of appetite or a visibly larger abdominal region. Doctors also use the ascitic fluid test to diagnose other health conditions such as:

● Liver cirrhosis

● Internal bleeding in the abdomen

● Peritonitis

● Ascitis

Understanding the reason why peritoneal fluid is accumulating in your stomach is also one of the primary goals of ascitic fluid analysis.

Components of an Ascitic Fluid Analysis Test

The ascitic fluid analysis test involves analysing the peritoneal fluid that’s collected from the patient’s abdomen. The ascitic fluid analysis results are analysed based on different parameters. The normal range of ascitic fluid is less than 500 leukocytes/µL and less than 250 polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs)/µL. Here’s what abnormal test results can indicate for an ascitic fluid analysis.

● If there’s substantial amounts of bile in the peritoneal fluid, it could indicate problems with the liver or gallbladder.

● The risk of peritonitis is high if the peritoneal fluid has high levels of white blood cells.

● Injury or tumours in the abdomen could lead to blood staining the peritoneal fluid.

● If the peritoneal fluid has a milky appearance, it could be a sign of liver cirrhosis, infections, tuberculosis, or carcinoma, which is a type of cancer.

● If there is a large difference between the albumin content of your blood and your peritoneal fluid, it could indicate the risk of liver, kidney, or heart failure. If the difference is very low, it could indicate cancer or infections.

Procedure And Prerequisites

An ascitic fluid analysis test is performed using a technique known as abdominal tap. The abdominal fluid is drawn from a locally anaesthetised location in the abdomen and sent for testing. There are no specific prerequisites for patients before going through the ascitic fluid test.

Ascitic Fluid Analysis Test in Kasargod

Ascitic Fluid Analysis Test in Kasargod

A0301

Daily

No Special Preparation Required

24 Hours

₹750

Parameters

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