Ascitic fluid laboratory data

Routine

Cell count and differential

Albumin

Total protein

Optional

Culture in blood culture bottles

Glucose

Lactate dehydrogenase

Amylase

Gram's stain

Unusual

AFB smear and culture

Cytology

Triglyceride

Bilirubin

Unhelpful

Lactate

Cholesterol

Fibronectin

Glycosaminoglycans

Ascitic_fluid_tests_AASLD.htm

AFB: acid-fast bacteria.

Reproduced with permission from: The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology 2004; 39:841.

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