Ascitic fluid

Test Alias / Common Abbreviations

 

Ascitic fluid M, C & S. 

 

Department


Department of Infections Science (Microbiology/Bacteriology)


Test Purpose  

 

White cell count, Gram stain and culture for common pathogens. White cell differential will be performed if WCC >250 x 10 6/L


Important Requesting Instructions

 

Fluid may be put into blood culture bottles if SBP is suspected, but separate sample must be sent in sterile container for cell count and Gram stain. Cell count cannot be performed on fluid inoculated into blood culture bottles.


NB for all microbiology requests, relevant clinical data and details of recent or current antimicrobial treatment should be provided

 

Sample Collection Instructions

 

 

Minimum 1ml, ideally 20-25ml, collect as per clinical guidelines

 

Sample Transport & Stability Information

 


Packaging must be compliant with Dangerous Good Safety Advisor (DGSA) requirements click here for more information.

If processing is delayed, refrigeration is preferable to storage at ambient temperature 

 

Sample Type, Container & Volume

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sterile plain container, blood culture bottle if applicable. Minimum 1ml, ideally 20-25ml

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turnaround Time

 

Microscopy - same day, culture 2-7 days



Where raised WBC count of >250 a differential cell count will be performed.

Cell counts will be telephoned to the requesting ward location only where requested urgently.

Delay in processing can significantly impact on the validity of the cell count. Storage and transport conditions may impact on recovery of micro-organisms. To reduce the impact, prompt transport to the laboratory is advised.

See: Guidelines on the management of ascites in cirrhosis, Aithal. et al, Gut 2020

 

 

Updated On: 21.05.2025