Although not predictive of the development of SBP, the presence of bacterial DNA in ascitic fluid and serum is an indicator of a poor prognosis necessitating further investigation. [72] ...

Cell counts and Gram-stained smears of ascitic fluid provided first evidence of bacterial peritonitis. Adequate bacteriologic studies of blood and ascitic fluid established definitive diagnosis.

Several hours later spontaneous paracentesis occurred, and an estimated 9000 ml. fluid drained (8000 ml. was measured). Vital signs remained stable. On the following day the serum sodium was 136 ...

Besides ascites itself, serious complications, such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) and hepatorenal syndrome, frequently ensue in decompensated cirrhosis. SBP develops from the ...