What is an Ascitic Fluid Test?

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why do I need an Ascitic Fluid Test?

If you experience symptoms like swelling in your feet, difficulty sitting, back pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and digestive problems such as abdominal pain, constipation, indigestion, loss of appetite, and bloating, your healthcare provider may recommend an Ascitic Fluid Test. This test helps diagnose various underlying conditions, including heart failure, kidney failure, liver cirrhosis, infection, or cancer.

What happens during an Ascitic Fluid Test?

During an Ascitic Fluid Test, a healthcare professional will start by cleaning and anesthetizing a small area on your abdomen. Then, they will insert a needle through your skin into your belly to withdraw the ascitic fluid. This fluid sample is collected in a tube attached to the needle and is later sent to the laboratory for testing. After the needle is removed, the skin area will be bandaged.

What tests are done for ascitic fluid?

Ascitic fluid tests include SAAG calculation, blood cell counts, appearance assessment, glucose measurement, tumor marker analysis, creatinine, lactate dehydrogenase, bilirubin levels, and tests for bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic infections. Microscopic examination checks for abnormal cells and additional tests may be performed based on clinical suspicion. These analyses aid in diagnosing conditions causing ascites, such as liver disease or infections, guiding treatment decisions.

What is normal ascitic fluid?

Normal ascitic fluid is typically clear and light yellow, with a volume of less than 50 ml. It contains fewer than 300 white blood cells/uL, mainly less than 250 polymorphonuclear WBC/uL. Red blood cells are usually absent. Protein is less than 4.1 g/dL, and glucose ranges from 70 to 100 mg/dL. Microscopically, it lacks malignant cells, bacteria, and fungi. Carcinoembryonic antigen is negative, and amylase ranges from 138 to 400 units/L. Alkaline phosphatase is between 87 to 250 units/L for females and 90 to 240 units/L for males. Individual health and circumstances can affect these 'normal' values, so consulting a healthcare professional is essential for interpretation.

What colour is ascites fluid?

Ascites fluid is typically clear and light yellow. However, abnormal colors can signify underlying issues. Red may indicate trauma, bleeding, tumor infiltration, or hemorrhagic pancreatitis. Green suggests a ruptured gallbladder, intestinal perforation, or acute pancreatitis. Chylous or turbid ascites has various potential causes. Any unusual color warrants medical attention to determine the underlying condition and appropriate treatment.

How do I prepare for an ascitic fluid test?

To prepare for an ascitic fluid test, typically fast for at least 6 hours, empty your bladder, and lie at a 45 to 60-degree angle. A healthcare professional will then clean your abdomen and use a needle to collect the fluid for testing. Follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider.

Can ascites be detected by blood test?

Yes, ascites can be detected through specific blood tests. Elevated ammonia levels may indicate ruptured or strangulated intestines, while increased amylase levels could suggest pancreatic trauma or intestinal necrosis. Low glucose levels may be associated with tuberculous and bacterial ascites. The presence of RBCs in the blood test may signal malignancy, intra-abdominal bleeding, or tuberculosis, while the presence of WBCs could indicate peritonitis, tuberculosis, or liver cirrhosis. Triglycerides exceeding 1000 mg/dL may also be a factor to consider. PCR tests for mycobacterium can provide additional information.

Are there any risks?

Yes, there are risks associated with an Ascitic Fluid Test. Inserting the needle into the abdomen carries the potential for damaging the bowel, bladder, or blood vessels, leading to complications such as infection, bleeding, and a drop in blood pressure, which could result in shock. The test should only be performed when all indications point towards ascites.