Peritoneal fluid: analysis in Dogs (Canis) | Vetlexicon
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Peritoneal fluid: analysis

ISSN 2398-2942

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Synonym(s): Ascitic fluid, peritoneal effusion, hydroperitoneum

Overview

  • Peritoneal cavity normally contains only a small amount of fluid; little or no fluid can be obtained by aspiration unless excess fluid (peritoneal effusion) is present.
  • Gross appearance can assist in determining the nature of the fluid, eg turbid fluid may be an exudate.
  • Investigation of effusions commonly includes some or all of:
  • Additional biochemical analyses may be of benefit for further characterization. Aim to classify initially into:
    • Transudate.
    • Modified transudate.
    • Exudate.

Uses

Alone

  • Assessment of nature peritoneal fluid; physical character, protein content, cell count, cytology, biochemistry, microbiology to aid in evaluation of cause of effusion.

Sampling

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Tests

Methodologies

Physical character

  • Color.
  • Turbidity.
  • Coagulation.
  • Odor.

Biochemistry

Availability

  • Readily available.

Technique intrinsic limitations

  • Does not always reveal underlying cause of effusion.

Technician extrinsic limitations

  • Cytological interpretation may be difficult, especially in differentiating neoplasia from reactive mesothelial cells - send for expert analysis.

Result Data

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Further Reading

Publications

Refereed papers

  • Recent references from VetMedResource and PubMed.
  • Jagger T (1997) Interpretation of test results for feline infectious peritonitis. Vet Rec 140 (12), 8977-8983.
  • Tyler R D et al (1989) Evaluation of pleural and peritoneal effusions. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 19(4), 743-768.