Note: More than one tube type is required to be collected for this test. Refer collection notes.
Fluid AND
4 mL
Sterile container 70 mL (yellow lid)
Blood (adult)
3 mL
PST 4.5 mL Li Heparin Gel (Lt Green top)
Blood (paediatric)
1 mL
2x PST Li Heparin Paed (Light Green top)
COLLECTION NOTES
A blood specimen should be collected at the same time (or within 24 hours of the collection of the peritoneal fluid) so that ratios can be calculated.
GENERAL NOTES
Protein and LD are performed if peritoneal fluid chemistry is requested. Please specifically request other required tests.
APPLICATION: Investigation of effusions; inflammatory conditions, including possible bacterial, viral and fungal infections; possible malignancy.
INTERPRETATION: Exudates are characterised by protein levels >25 g/L; commonly associated with malignancy, pneumonia, tuberculosis. Transudates have protein levels <25 g/L and are seen in congestive cardiac failure, cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, hypothyroidism. Glucose levels may be low in pleuritis or pericarditis due to rheumatoid arthritis. Amylase is raised in pleuritis associated with pancreatitis.
