Ascitic Tap
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis should be considered in all patients with advanced cirrhosis and tense ascites who present in a decompensated state. There is often a short window of opportunity to confirm the diagnosis and commence antibiotic therapy, avoiding multisystem organ failure.
An ascitic tap is traditionally performed at the point of maximum dullness to percussion however given our familiarity with ultrasound it can be a useful addition to improve accuracy.
Remember your sample needs to be analysed within 6 hrs of collection!
