Abstract | BACKGROUND: The analytical pattern of ascitic fluid in peritoneal tuberculosis is frequently similar to that found in other causes of ascites. The diagnostic value of the ascitic fluid pH and lactate in cases of tuberculous peritonitis has not yet been established. METHODS: RESULTS: A decreased pH and an elevated lactate level in ascitic fluid were found in patients in group I in comparison with those in group II (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between group I and groups III and IV. The arterial blood-ascitic fluid pH gradient was more than 0.10 (p < 0.001), and the ascitic fluid-serum lactate gradient was greater than 15 mg/dl (p < 0.001) in group I when compared with group II. No significant differences were found between group I and groups III and IV. CONCLUSIONS: Ascitic fluid pH and lactate are useful markers in differentiating tuberculous peritonitis from cirrhotic sterile ascites. However, these variables lack specificity, as they are also decreased and increased, respectively, in cases of malignant ascites and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.
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Authors | J L Sánchez-Lombraña, J de la Vega, E Fernández, A Linares, R Pérez, N G Sotorrío, M Rodríguez, L Rodrigo |
Journal | Scandinavian journal of gastroenterology
(Scand J Gastroenterol)
Vol. 30
Issue 1
Pg. 87-91
(Jan 1995)
ISSN: 0036-5521 [Print] England |
PMID | 7701257
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Adult
- Ascitic Fluid
(chemistry)
- Diagnosis, Differential
- Female
- Humans
- Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
- Lactates
(analysis)
- Lactic Acid
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Peritonitis, Tuberculous
(diagnosis)
- Prospective Studies
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