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Peritoneal fluid analysis How the Test is Performed:
A sample of fluid is obtained by abdominal tap. The fluid is examined in the laboratory for appearance, red and white blood cell counts, protein , glucose, amylase, ammonia , alkaline phosphatase , LDH , cytology , bacteria, fungi, and possibly other substances.
How to Prepare:
You must sign a consent form. Immediately before the abdominal tap, empty your bladder.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How it Feels:
There is a stinging sensation from the anesthetic. There will be a feeling of pressure as the needle is inserted. If a large amount of fluid is withdrawn, you may have a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness . Tell the health care provider if you become dizzy .
Risks:
There is a slight chance of the needle puncturing the bowel, bladder, or a blood vessel in the abdomen. If a large quantity of fluid is removed, there is a slight risk of shock . There is also a slight chance of infection.
Why this Test is Performed:
The test is performed to determine the cause of fluid ( ascites ) in the abdomen, to detect trauma, to detect perforation (hole) of the bladder, to detect peritonitis , or to detect peritoneal effusion.
Normal Values:
The normal appearance of peritoneal fluid is clear to pale yellow in an amount less than 2 ounces. There are no red blood cells.
- protein : 0.3 to 4.1 g/dl
- glucose: 70 to 100 mg/dl
- amylase: 138 to 404 amylase units per liter
- alkaline phosphatase : normal for sex and age
- LDH is equal to serum level
Cytology :
No malignant cells are present.
No bacteria are present.
No fungi are present.
Note: gm/dl = grams per deciliter
Abnormal Results:
Milk-colored peritoneal fluid may indicate disease such as carcinoma , lymphoma , tuberculosis or infection. Bloody fluid may indicate tumor or trauma. Bile-stained fluid may indicate gallbladder problems. High white blood cell counts may indicate peritonitis or cirrhosis . Other laboratory abnormalities may indicate abnormalities in the intestinal or abdominal organs.
Cost:
The estimated cost is $68.00. The cost does not include the abdominal tap procedure to collect the fluid sample.
Special Considerations:
Not applicable.
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