Microbiology
| Full details for "Ascitic fluid culture". | |
|---|---|
Name |
Ascitic fluid culture |
Alternative name/Profile |
Ascitic fluid culture / ascites / Peritoneal fluid / Peritoneal cavity fluid / Hydroperitoneum / abdominal fluid / abdominal dropsy |
Department |
Microbiology |
Investigation |
|
Specimen type |
Ascitic fluid |
Sample type |
|
Sample container & volume |
5 mL in sterile universal container Send the sample in an EDTA tube with the correct order if cell count required. Send the sample in a red topped tube with the correct order if protein required. Send the sample in a separate sterile universal with the correct order if cytology is required. Once Microbiology had processed the fluid it is unsuitable for cytology |
Frequency of analysis |
Daily |
Turnaround time |
3 days |
Availability |
Monday - Sunday |
Notes |
Microscopy results are available within 24 hours. Urgent microscopy can be performed if necessary. Please contact the laboratory. Ascitic fluid may also be directly innoculated into Blood Culture bottles. However a gram stain cannot be performed on a sample supplied in a blood culture bottle unless an additional sample is supplied in a sterile universal container. Send sample to the laboratory without delay. Sample should be refrigerated if not transported immediately |
Related links |
The Royal College of Pathologists: |
Reference range |
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Last updated |
Wed, 30 Jul 2025 15:52:48 IST |