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| Definition: |
This laboratory test is performed on a sample of peritoneal fluid to isolate and identify the presence of microorganisms that cause infection (peritonitis). Peritoneal fluid is the fluid from the peritoneal cavity, a space between two membranes lining the abdominal cavity.
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| Alternative Names: |
Culture - peritoneal fluid
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| How the test is performed: |
| The test is performed by paracentesis, a needle aspiration of the peritoneal cavity. A sample of fluid is sent to the laboratory for gram stain and culture preparation. The sample is examined regularly for the growth of microorganisms. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
Empty your bladder prior to the paracentesis procedure.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
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| How the test will feel: |
| A small area in your abdomen will be cleaned with an antiseptic. You will also receive local anesthesia and will feel a stinging sensation from the anesthetic. You will then feel pressure as the needle is inserted. If a large amount of fluid is withdrawn, you may have a feeling of dizziness or light-headedness.
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| Why the test is performed: |
| The test is done to aid in the determination of whether there is an infection in the peritoneal space (peritonitis). |
| Normal Values: |
| Peritoneal fluid is a sterile fluid, so normally no organisms are present.
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| What abnormal results mean: |
| The growth of any microorganism (e.g., bacteria, fungi) from peritoneal fluid is abnormal and represents peritonitis.
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| What the risks are: |
| There is a small risk of the needle puncturing the bowel, bladder, or a blood vessel in the abdomen, resulting in bowel perforation and/or bleeding and infection.
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| Special considerations: |
| The determination of peritonitis is not only based on a peritoneal fluid culture (as this may remain negative even in the face of peritonitis), but also on other clinical and laboratory parameters as well.
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Review Date: 1/27/2002
Reviewed By: Rocio Hurtado, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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