Peritoneal fluid analysis

The sample of fluid is removed from the peritoneal space using a needle and syringe. Ultrasound is often used to direct the needle to the fluid. Your health care provider will clean and numb a small area of your belly area (abdomen). A needle is inserted through the skin of your abdomen and a fluid sample is pulled…

Let your provider know if you: Are taking any medicines (including herbal remedies) Have any allergies to medicines or numbing medicine Have any bleeding problems Are pregnant or planning to get pregnant

You may feel a stinging sensation from the numbing medicine, or pressure as the needle is placed. If a large amount of fluid is taken out, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded. Tell the provider if you feel dizzy.

The test is done to: Detect peritonitis (infection in the peritoneal space). Find the cause of fluid in the abdomen. Remove large amounts of fluid from the peritoneal space in people who have liver disease. (This is done to make breathing comfortable.) See whether an injury to the abdomen has caused internal bleeding.

Abnormal results may mean: Bile-stained fluid may mean you have a gallbladder or liver problem. Bloody fluid may be a sign of tumor or injury. High white blood cell counts may be a sign of peritonitis . Milk-colored peritoneal fluid may be a sign of carcinoma (a type of cancer), cirrhosis of the liver , lymphoma ,…

Risks may include: Damage to the bowel, bladder, or a blood vessel in the abdomen from the needle puncture Bleeding Infection Low blood pressure Shock

Chernecky CC, Berger BJ. Paracentesis (peritoneal fluid analysis) - diagnostic. In: Chernecky CC, Berger BJ, eds. Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Procedures . 6th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier Saunders; 2013:849-851. Kwo PY. Clinical features of liver disease. In: Saxena R, ed. Practical Hepatic Pathology: A Diagnostic…