Test Library

Includes Biochemistry, Cell count

Preferred Specimen(s) 2 ml ascitic fluid

Transport Container Plastic screw-cap container/EDTA tube

Transport Temperature Refrigerated

Reject Criteria

  • Gel barrier tube;
  • frozen

Methodology PAP stain, Geimsa stain, Microscopic examination

Clinical Significance Fluid analysis is useful to describe the cause of fluid accumulation, i.e., transudate, exudate, hemorrhage, or effusion. Ascites fluid may be secondary to malignancy even with negative cytological exam.