Ascitic Fluid Analysis in the Differential Diagnosis of Ascites: Focus on Cirrhotic Ascites

Differential diagnosis of ascites: etiologies, ascitic fluid analysis, diagnostic algorithm

Ascites is the pathological accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity. It often occurs as results of liver cirrhosis, malignant neoplasia, tuberculous infection, cardiac insufficiency, renal diseases, etc. Determining the etiology is an essential step in the management of patients with new-onset ascites. Abdominal paracentesis with appropriate ascitic fluid analysis is probably the most cost-effective method of determining the cause of ascites. We performed a literature search of PubMed and identified articles published in the field of ascites, to evaluate diagnostic values of various parameters in defining the etiologies of ascites and then provides diagnostic algorithm for patients with new-onset ascites. In patients with ascites, the constituent ratio of underlying etiology varies between developed and developing countries. It is a challenge to define the etiologies of ascites in developing countries. Routine ascitic fluid analysis should include the serum ascites albumin gradient (SAAG), total protein concentration, cell count and differential. Optional ascitic fluid analysis includes cholesterol, fluid culture, cytology, tumor markers, lactate dehydrogenase, adenosine deaminase (ADA), triglyceride, amylase, glucose, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), etc. Our review evaluated diagnostic values of the above parameters in defining the etiologies of ascites. Diagnostic algorithm established in this review would provide a practical and convenient diagnostic strategy for clinicians in diagnosing patients with new-onset ascites.

Bacterial profile, drug resistance pattern, clinical and laboratory predictors of ascites infection in cirrhosis patients

Ascites is a pathological collection of free fluid in the peritoneal cavity, which is a common complication in patients with cirrhosis, an advanced liver disease. Bacterial infection increases the mortality rate of hospitalized patients with cirrhosis, irrespective of the severity of the liver disease. Around 60% of patients with compensated cirrhosis developed ascites within 10 years during the course of their disease. The in-hospital mortality rate due to spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) could exceed 90%, but with early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic therapy, this rate has been shown to decrease to 20%. Here, we enrolled adult (age ≥ 18) patients with liver disease with evidence of cirrhosis who developed ascites and assessed the presence of spontaneous ascites fluid infection (SAFI) in these patients. Of the total 218 patients, 22.9% (50/218) develop ascites infection. The liver organ function tests like alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin were found to be significantly (P < 0.05) higher in patients with ascites fluid infection compared to patients with non-ascites fluid infection. Of the gram-negative bacteria, K. pneumonia and E. coli were isolated and found to be 100% resistant to amoxicillin and clavulanate. From the gram-positive bacterial isolates, S. aureus was only resistant to penicillin, whereas Str. viridans was resistant to ceftriaxone, cefotaxime, cefepime, and penicillin. On the other hand, clinical features such as a history of jaundice, low arterial blood pressure, and ultrasound results such as a shrunken liver and enlarged spleen were also independent predictors of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. In conclusion, given the high probability of death following SAFI, early detection, and treatment, as well as knowledge of the microbial agent, resistance profile, and predictive markers in various contexts, are essential for the timely diagnosis and management of SAFI in these patients.

Ascitic Fluid Lactate Level as a Predictor of Mortality in Cirrhotic Patients Having Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP)

Introduction Limited studies are available for predicting mortality in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) based on ascitic fluid analysis. Recently, a proposition has been made regarding the role of ascitic fluid lactate as a better prognostic indicator of mortality in cirrhotic patients with SBP. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the utility of ascitic fluid lactate in predicting mortality in cirrhotic patients with SBP. Methods This was a prospective, observational study that was conducted in the Hepato-Gastroenterology Department of Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT), Karachi from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2022. All the patients having liver cirrhosis with ascites, aged between 18 and 65 years, and presenting with fever and/or abdominal pain were recruited in the study in the first six months (i.e., from 1 January 2022 to 30 June 2022) and were followed for six more months for the outcome. However, those patients on dialysis or those with hepatocellular carcinoma, any other malignancy as per a history of solid organ transplant, a history of HIV infection, or those underlying systemic sepsis or infections other than SBP were excluded from the study. The presence or absence of SBP was confirmed by doing the ascitic fluid analysis. Ascitic fluid lactate levels were also requested in each patient. Mortality was assessed at one, two, three, and six months, respectively. All the data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. The area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) was obtained for ascitic fluid lactate for predicting mortality in SBP. At an optimal cutoff, the diagnostic accuracy of ascitic fluid lactate was obtained. Results The total number of cirrhotic patients included in the study was 123. The majority of the patients belong to Child Turcotte Pugh (CTP) class C (n = 88; 71%). Two third of the patients (65.8%; n = 81) had viral hepatitis i.e., hepatitis B, D, and/or C, as the cause of cirrhosis. Overall mortality was observed in 51(41.5%) patients. Ascitic fluid lactate was significantly raised in patients with SBP than in patients with non-SBP (p = 0.004). The AUROC of ascitic fluid lactate was highest at three months (AUROC = 0.88) followed by six months (AUROC = 0.84), two months (AUROC = 0.804), and one month (AUROC=0.773). At an optimal cut-off of more than or equal to 22.4 mg/dl, ascitic fluid lactate had a sensitivity of 84.9%, specificity of 85.7%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 97.3%, negative predictive value of 42.8% with diagnostic accuracy of 85% in predicting overall mortality in patients with SBP. On sub-analysis, the diagnostic accuracy of ascitic fluid lactate was highest at six months followed by at three, two, and one month, respectively. Conclusion Ascitic fluid lactate showed a good diagnostic utility in predicting the overall mortality in patients with SBP with the best diagnostic accuracy in predicting long-term (six months) mortality. However, further studies are required to validate our results.

Idiopathic Chronic Pancreatitis Presenting as Hemorrhagic Ascites: A Case Report

This report presents a perplexing case involving a 16-year-old adolescent presenting with persistent upper abdominal pain and distention. The patient had no history of substance abuse or animal-related encounters. Clinical examination revealed abdominal tension, distention, and localized tenderness. Laboratory analysis indicated elevated white blood cell count, mildly reduced hemoglobin and platelet levels, and notably heightened amylase and lipase levels. Serum albumin displayed a minor decrease. Despite repeated consultations and ultrasound evaluations, the underlying cause remained elusive. Advanced imaging unveiled substantial abdominopelvic ascites, a shrunken pancreas with an expanded main duct, and thickening at the ileocecal junction. Ascitic fluid analysis unveiled hemorrhagic fluid with elevated cell and neutrophil counts. Notably, the fluid accumulation extended into the omental apron covering the intestines. Biopsy results ruled out malignancy and chronic infections. We diagnosed him as a case of idiopathic chronic pancreatitis presenting as hemorrhagic ascites. This case underscores the intricacies of diagnosing complex abdominal disorders. A comprehensive approach, involving multidisciplinary collaboration, rigorous diagnostic assessments, and meticulous patient evaluation, is essential for elucidating such challenging clinical scenarios.

Impact of exosome therapy on pancreatic cancer and its progression

Pancreatic cancer, one of the most aggressive tumors, has a dismal prognosis because of the low rates of early identification, fast progression, difficulties following surgery, and the ineffectiveness of current oncologic therapies. There are no imaging techniques or biomarkers that can accurately identify, categorize, or predict the biological behavior of this tumor. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that play a crucial rule in the progression, metastasis, and chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer. They have been verified to be potential biomarkers for pancreatic cancer management. Studying the role of exosomes in pancreatic cancer is substantial. Exosomes are secreted by most eukaryotic cells and participated in intercellular communication. The components of exosomes, including proteins, DNA, mRNA, microRNA, long non-coding RNA, circular RNA, etc., play a crucial role in regulating tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis in the process of cancer development, and can be used as a prognostic marker and/or grading basis for tumor patients. Hereby, in this concise review, we intend to summarize exosomes components and isolation, exosome secretion, function, importance of exosomes in the progression of pancreatic cancer and exosomal miRNAs as possible pancreatic cancer biomarkers. Finally, the application potential of exosomes in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, which provides theoretical supports for using exosomes to serve precise tumor treatment in the clinic, will be discussed.

Bacterial growth and ceftriaxone activity in individual ascitic fluids in an in vitro model of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

Introduction: The environment of the infection site affects bacterial growth and antibiotic activity. When bacterial growth and antibiotic activity are studied in body fluids, samples of multiple subjects are usually pooled, averaging out potentially relevant differences in composition. The ascitic fluid (AF) environment is frequently associated with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) in cirrhotic patients. In this study, bacterial growth and ceftriaxone activity were evaluated in individual AF using an in vitro model of SBP, reflecting the environment and pharmacokinetics at the infection site.

Methods: AF was obtained from nine cirrhotic patients with non-infected ascites. Growth of nine bacterial strains (three Escherichia coli, four Staphylococcus aureus, one Enterococcus faecalis, and one Klebsiella pneumoniae) in individual AF was assessed and correlated with biomarkers including potential risk factors for SBP. Ceftriaxone time-kill experiments, in which the pharmacokinetic profile observed in AF following a 1 g intravenous infusion was replicated, were performed with two E. coli and two S. aureus isolates with minimum inhibitory concentrations around the ceftriaxone resistance breakpoint.

Results: Significant correlations were found between bacterial growth and AF levels of protein (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient ρ = −0.35), albumin (ρ = −0.31), and complement C3c (ρ = −0.28), and serum levels of bilirubin (ρ = 0.39) and aspartate aminotransferase (ρ = 0.25). Ceftriaxone was active in AF, even against resistant isolates, generally resulting in ≥2 log reductions in bacterial count within 24 h.

Conclusion: Ascites patients may be predisposed to or protected against SBP based on the antimicrobial capacity of their AF. Ceftriaxone at clinical AF concentrations is active in the AF environment.

The Impact of ASCITIC Paracentesis on Symptomatic Outcomes in Palliative Patients: 3-Year Experience of a Melbourne Inpatient Palliative Care Unit Using Palliative Care Outcomes Collaboration Assessments

Background. Ascites formation is a common occurrence in patients receiving palliative care. This is associated with symptoms that may respond to drainage. Aim. To review and quantify ascites-related symptoms pre- and post-paracentesis to evaluate its benefit in an inpatient palliative care setting. Methods. A retrospective audit of patients admitted to an inpatient palliative care unit who underwent paracentesis between November 2016 to June 2020 was performed. The primary outcome was a symptomatic benefit of paracentesis. Secondary outcomes assessed the associated complications as well as the alterations to functional status. Data were analysed using a paired T-test. Results. 43 instances of ascitic paracentesis were performed on a total of 26 patients. Three patients were excluded from the study due to the technical failure of their paracentesis procedure. There was a mean 0.16-point reduction in pain (95% confidence interval (CI) −0.33 to 0.65), a mean 0.03-point increase in dyspnoea (95% CI −0.51 to 0.46), and a mean 0.32-point reduction in nausea (95% CI −0.09 to 0.74). Conclusions. Ascitic paracentesis in the palliative setting may demonstrate some benefit in managing symptoms associated with ascites. Although the findings of this study did not achieve statistical significance, these results may be substantiated by future studies with larger sample size.

Management of Malignant Obstructive Jaundice: Defining the Relevance of Various Palliative Surgical Options in Resource-Challenged Settings: A Review Article

Malignant obstructive jaundice (MOJ) constitutes an important surgical problem with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Presentation is usually delayed with a majority of patients benefitting only from palliative treatment. Surgeons practicing in developing countries face herculean task in managing MOJ due to lack of minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. Palliative surgical procedures are associated with high morbidity and sometimes mortality. Abdominal pain, generalized pruritus, and gastric outlet obstruction are some of the symptoms of MOJ requiring palliation. Successful surgical palliation may improve the overall quality of life in patients with MOJ considered fit for surgery. Bypass procedures and regional nerve blocks constitute the most effective surgical palliation available to surgeons practicing in resource-limited settings. This review article discusses the indications, the role, and types of surgical bypass procedures in the management of MOJ in contemporary surgical practice. This is important for surgeons in countries where expertise and resources for the less morbid endoscopic and radiologic approaches are not available. Relevant articles up to January 2021 published in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Hinari on the surgical management of obstructive jaundice were reviewed for inclusion. We also reviewed some modern surgical textbook topics on obstructive jaundice.

Spheroid Formation and Peritoneal Metastasis in Ovarian Cancer: The Role of Stromal and Immune Components

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common gynecological cancers, with the worst prognosis and the highest mortality rate. Peritoneal dissemination (or carcinomatosis) accompanied by ascites formation is the most unfavorable factor in the progression and recurrence of OC. Tumor cells in ascites are present as either separate cells or, more often, as cell aggregates, i.e., spheroids which promote implantation on the surface of nearby organs and, at later stages, metastases to distant organs. Malignant ascites comprises a unique tumor microenvironment; this fact may be of relevance in the search for new prognostic and predictive factors that would make it possible to personalize the treatment of patients with OC. However, the precise mechanisms of spheroid formation and carcinomatosis are still under investigation. Here, we summarize data on ascites composition as well as the activity of fibroblasts and macrophages, the key stromal and immune components, in OC ascites. We describe current knowledge about the role of fibroblasts and macrophages in tumor spheroid formation, and discuss the specific functions of fibroblasts, macrophages and T cells in tumor peritoneal dissemination and implantation.

Ascites in Acute Pancreatitis: Clinical Implications and Management

Clinically significant ascites in acute pancreatitis (AP) is rarely encountered and is a result of multifactorial pathogenesis. Early reactionary ascites in AP usually does not require any treatment and resolves spontaneously in majority of patients. A diagnostic analysis should be performed in case of ascites developing in the latter stages with increasing pain or worsening organ failure. Low serum albumin-ascites gradient ascites with amylase > 1000 U/l is highly suggestive of pancreatic ascites that is usually associated with duct disruption. A combination of nasojejunal feeding, subcutaneous octreotide, endoscopic drainage and rarely, surgery are employed in managing this difficult to treat condition. There is a need of further studies to better understand the clinical role of ascites as well as contribution of other factors like hypoalbuminemia and portal hypertension to its development in AP.

Young Man With Non-hypertensive Ascites of Unexpected Cause: When Ockham’s Razor Is Not Sufficient

Ascites is defined as the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, following an imbalance between production and reabsorption; it is detectable from 50 mL on ultrasound. Three mechanisms have been classically implicated, according to Starling's forces: an increase in the hydrostatic pressure gradient (increased portal venous pressure), a reduction in the oncotic pressure gradient (loss of total proteins, especially albumin), and an increase in peritoneal capillary permeability. This latter mechanism, plus the difference between lymph production and excretion (which favors the accumulation of exudate), explains some of the most notable causes of non-hypertensive ascites (according to the serum albumin in ascites gradient (SAAG)), including peritoneal carcinomatosis and tuberculosis. We present the case of a young man, originally from a tuberculosis endemic area, in whom the study of ascitic fluid guided the workup and the definitive diagnosis, which was unexpected for his age. Finally, a practical approach to non-hypertensive ascites is provided.

Machine learning-based system for prediction of ascites grades in patients with liver cirrhosis using laboratory and clinical data: design and implementation study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to implement a non-invasive model to predict ascites grades among patients with cirrhosis.

METHODS

In the present study, we used modern machine learning (ML) methods to develop a scoring system solely based on routine laboratory and clinical data to help physicians accurately diagnose and predict different degrees of ascites. We used ANACONDA3-5.2.0 64 bit, free and open-source platform distribution of Python programming language with numerous modules, packages, and rich libraries that provide various methods for classification problems. Through the 10-fold cross-validation, we employed three common learning models on our dataset, k-nearest neighbors (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), and neural network classification algorithms.

RESULTS

According to the data received from the research institute, three types of data analysis have been performed. The algorithms used to predict ascites were KNN, cross-validation (CV), and multilayer perceptron neural networks (MLPNN), which achieved an average accuracy of 94, 91, and 90%, respectively. Also, in the average accuracy of the algorithms, KNN had the highest accuracy of 94%.

CONCLUSIONS

We applied well-known ML approaches to predict ascites. The findings showed a strong performance compared to the classical statistical approaches. This ML-based approach can help to avoid unnecessary risks and costs for patients with acute stages of the disease.

Non-Enzymatic Amperometric Glucose Screen-Printed Sensors Based on Copper and Copper Oxide Particles

Non-enzymatic amperometric glucose sensors have gained much attention in the past decade because of the better chemical and thermal stability and biocompatibility compared to conventional sensors based on the use of biomolecules. This study focuses on a novel copper and copper oxide-based glucose sensor synthesized by an electrodeposition technique through a rigorous protocol which reports an excellent analytical performance due to its structure and its increased active area. In addition, the linear response range, detection limit and sensitivity were 0.5–5.0 mmol L−1, 0.002 mmol L−1, 904 μA mmol−1 L−1 cm−2, respectively. Results show a reliable electrode as it is chemically stable, exhibits rapid and excellent sensitivity, and it is not significantly affected by coexisting species present in the blood samples; furthermore, it reports a maximum relative standard deviation error (RSD) of 6%, and showed long operating life as the electrode was used for thousand measurements of 4.0 mmol L−1 glucose solution during three days.

Malignant Ascites in Ovarian Cancer: Cellular, Acellular, and Biophysical Determinants of Molecular Characteristics and Therapy Response

Ascites refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the peritoneum resulting from an underlying pathology, such as metastatic cancer. Among all cancers, advanced-stage epithelial ovarian cancer is most frequently associated with the production of malignant ascites and is the leading cause of death from gynecologic malignancies. Despite decades of evidence showing that the accumulation of peritoneal fluid portends the poorest outcomes for cancer patients, the role of malignant ascites in promoting metastasis and therapy resistance remains poorly understood. This review summarizes the current understanding of malignant ascites, with a focus on ovarian cancer. The first section provides an overview of heterogeneity in ovarian cancer and the pathophysiology of malignant ascites. Next, analytical methods used to characterize the cellular and acellular components of malignant ascites, as well the role of these components in modulating cell biology, are discussed. The review then provides a perspective on the pressures and forces that tumors are subjected to in the presence of malignant ascites and the impact of physical stress on therapy resistance. Treatment options for malignant ascites, including surgical, pharmacological and photochemical interventions are then discussed to highlight challenges and opportunities at the interface of drug discovery, device development and physical sciences in oncology.

Survivin drives tumor-associated macrophage reprogramming: a novel mechanism with potential impact for obesity

PURPOSE

Recent studies point to adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) as a link between obesity and cancer. We aimed to determine whether survivin, which is highly secreted by ASCs from subjects with obesity, might drive a pro-tumoral phenotype in macrophages.

METHODS

The effect of ASC conditioned medium on the macrophage phenotype was assessed by expression studies. Survivin intracellular localization and internalization were examined by subcellular fractionation and immunofluorescence, respectively. Loss- and gain-of-function studies were performed using adenoviral vectors, and gene expression patterns, migration and invasion capacities of cancer cells were examined. Heterotypic cultures of ASCs, macrophages and cancer cells were established to mimic the tumor microenvironment. Survivin-blocking experiments were used to determine the impact of survivin on both macrophages and cancer cells. Immunohistochemical analysis of survivin was performed in macrophages from ascitic fluids of cancer patients and healthy controls.

RESULTS

We found that obese-derived ASCs induced a phenotypic switch in macrophages characterized by the expression of both pro- and anti-inflammatory markers. Macrophages were found to internalize extracellular survivin, generating hybrid macrophages with a tumor-associated phenotype that included secretion of survivin. Exogenous expression of survivin in macrophages generated a similar phenotype and enhanced the malignant characteristics of cancer cells by a mechanism dependent on survivin phosphorylation at threonine 34. Survivin secreted by both ASCs from subjects with obesity and tumor-associated macrophages synergistically boosted the malignancy of cancer cells. Importantly, survivin was mainly detected in ascites-associated macrophages from patients with a malignant diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that survivin may serve as a molecular link between obesity and cancer and as a novel marker for tumor-associated macrophages.

Computed tomography in the diagnosis of intraperitoneal effusions: The role of texture analysis

The morphological changes advocating for peritoneal carcinomatosis are inconsistent and may be visible only in later stages of the disease. However, malignant ascites represents an early sign, and this fluid exhibits specific histological characteristics. This study aimed to quantify the fluid properties on computed tomography (CT) images of intraperitoneal effusions through texture analysis and evaluate its utility in differentiating benign and malignant collections. Fifty-two patients with histologically proven benign (n=29) and malignant (n=23) intraperitoneal effusions who underwent CT examinations were retrospectively included. Texture analysis of the fluid component was performed on the non-enhanced phase of each examination using dedicated software. Fisher and the probability of classification error and average correlation coefficients were used to select two sets of ten texture features, whose ability to distinguish between the two types of collections were tested using a k-nearest-neighbor classifier. Also, each of the selected feature's diagnostic power was assessed using univariate and receiver operating characteristics analysis with the calculation of the area under the curve. The k-nearest-neighbor classifier was able to distinguish between the two entities with 71.15% accuracy, 73.91% sensitivity, and 68.97% specificity. The highest-ranked texture parameter was Inverse Difference Moment (p=0.0023; area under the curve=0.748), based on which malignant collections could be diagnosed with 95.65% sensitivity and 44.83% specificity. Although successful, the texture assessment of benign and malignant collections most likely does not reflect the cytological differences between the two groups.

Human Amnion-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Cirrhotic Patients with Refractory Ascites: A Possible Anti-Inflammatory Therapy for Preventing Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

Cirrhosis is associated with dysregulated immune cell activation and immune dysfunction. These conditions modify gut flora, facilitate bacterial translocation, and increase susceptibility to bacterial peritonitis and consequent systemic infections by dramatically affecting long-term patient survival. Human amnion-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hA-MSCs) exert immunomodulatory potential benefit, and have the ability to modulate their actions, especially in situations requiring immune activation through mechanisms not fully understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate, in vitro, the immunostimulant or immunosuppressive effects of hA-MSCs on cellular components of ascitic fluid obtained from cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites. We found that hA-MSCs viability is not affected by ascitic fluid and, interestingly, hA-MSCs diminished the pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and promoted anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage polarization. Moreover, we found that there was no simultaneous significant decrease in the M1-like component, allowing a continual phagocytosis activity of macrophages and NK cells to restore a physiological condition. These data highlight the plasticity of hA-MSCs' immunomodulatory capacity, and pave the way to further understanding their role in conditions such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging as a Noninvasive Parameter for Differentiating Benign and Malignant Intraperitoneal Collections

Background and Objective: The imaging differentiation of benign from malignant intraperitoneal collections (IPCs) relies on the tumoral morphological modifications of the peritoneum, which are not always advocating for malignancy. We aimed to assess ascitic fluid with the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) to determine non-invasive, stand-alone, differentiation criteria for benign and malignant intraperitoneal effusions. Materials and Methods: Sixty-one patients with known IPCs who underwent magnetic resonance examinations for reasons such as tumor staging, undetermined abdominal mass and disease follow up were retrospectively included in this study. All subjects had a final diagnosis of the fluid based on pathological examinations, which were divided into benign (n = 37) and malignant (n = 24) IPCs groups. ADC values were measured separately by two radiologists, and the average values were used for comparing the two groups by consuming the independent samples t-test. The receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to test the ADC values' diagnostic ability to distinguish malignant from benign collections. Results: The differentiation between benign and malignant IPCs based on ADC values was statistically significant (p = 0.0034). The mean ADC values were higher for the benign (3.543 × 10^-3 mm²/s) than for the malignant group (3.057 × 10^-3 mm²/s). The optimum ADC cutoff point for the diagnosis of malignant ascites was <3.241 × 10^-3 mm²/s, with a sensitivity of 77.78% and a specificity of 80%. Conclusions: ADC represents a noninvasive and reproducible imaging parameter that may help to assess intraperitoneal collections. Although successful in distinguishing malignant from benign IPCs, further research must be conducted in order to certify if the difference in ADC values is a consequence of the physical characteristics of the ascitic fluids or their appurtenance to a certain histopathological group.

Laboratory testing of extravascular body fluids: National recommendations on behalf of the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine. Part I - Serous fluids

Extravascular body fluids (EBF) analysis can provide useful information in the differential diagnosis of conditions that caused their accumulation. Their unique nature and particular requirements accompanying EBF analysis need to be recognized in order to minimize possible negative implications on patient safety. This recommendation was prepared by the members of the Working group for extravascular body fluid samples (WG EBFS). It is designed to address the total testing process and clinical significance of tests used in EBF analysis. The recommendation begins with a chapter addressing validation of methods used in EBF analysis, and continues with specific recommendations for serous fluids analysis. It is organized in sections referring to the preanalytical, analytical and postanalytical phase with specific recommendations presented in boxes. Its main goal is to assist in the attainment of national harmonization of serous fluid analysis and ultimately improve patient safety and healthcare outcomes. This recommendation is intended to all laboratory professionals performing EBF analysis and healthcare professionals involved in EBF collection and processing. Cytological and microbiological evaluations of EBF are beyond the scope of this document.

Use of the term atypical cells in the reporting of ascitic fluid cytology: A caveat

Background

Abdominal paracentesis is a routine diagnostic procedure for assessment of patients with recent onset or worsening of ascites.

Objectives

The objective of the study is to (1) review clinically confirmed cases of malignancy with negative, atypical, and suspicious cytology reports and provide reasoning for discrepancies and (2) recalculate sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values after review.

Materials and Methods

Papanicolaou smears of ascitic fluid paracentesis samples received over one calendar year were reviewed retrospectively by an expert in cytopathology blinded to the final clinical and/or histopathological diagnoses. Cases with discrepancies after review were noted. Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values were calculated before and after review of slides. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.

Results

Malignant etiology was identified in 49/115 cases (42.6%) with female genital tract being the most common site of malignancy (22, 44.8%). The remaining 66 (57.4%) had a benign etiology with hepatic cirrhosis in 42 cases (63.6%). A review revealed discrepancies in five cases, three of which were earlier called negative for malignant cells (one case each of ovarian adenocarcinoma, cecal adenocarcinoma, and cholangiocarcinoma). Two cases of ovarian adenocarcinoma that were reported as atypical/reactive mesothelial hyperplasia showed malignant cells upon review. Sensitivity and specificity after review were 69.4% and 100%, respectively, with 100% positive predictive value.

Conclusion

Being a minimally invasive procedure, abdominal paracentesis continues to be an important diagnostic tool in guiding patient management. A proper morphological assessment with adequate clinical information and correlation with other investigations can be used to arrive at a definitive diagnosis in most cases. The term "atypical" can be misleading and is often used for want of clinical information and is best avoided.

3-Methylcholanthrene Induces Chylous Ascites in TCDD-Inducible Poly-ADP-Ribose Polymerase (Tiparp) Knockout Mice

TCDD-inducible poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (TIPARP) is an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) target gene that functions as part of a negative feedback loop to repress AHR activity. Tiparp^−/− mice exhibit increased sensitivity to the toxicological effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), including lethal wasting syndrome. However, it is not known whether Tiparp^−/− mice also exhibit increased sensitivity to other AHR ligands. In this study, we treated male Tiparp^−/− or wild type (WT) mice with a single injection of 100 mg/kg 3-methylcholanthrene (3MC). Consistent with TIPARP’s role as a repressor of AHR signaling, 3MC-treated Tiparp^−/− mice exhibited increased hepatic Cyp1a1 and Cyp1b1 levels compared with WT mice. No 3MC-treated Tiparp^−/− mice survived beyond day 16 and the mice exhibited chylous ascites characterized by an accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity. All WT mice survived the 30-day treatment and showed no signs of fluid accumulation. Treated Tiparp^−/− mice also exhibited a transient and mild hepatotoxicity with inflammation. 3MC-treated WT, but not Tiparp^−/− mice, developed mild hepatic steatosis. Lipid deposits accumulated on the surface of the liver and other abdominal organs in the 3MC-Tiparp^−/− mice. Our study reveals that Tiparp^−/− mice have increased sensitivity to 3MC-induced liver toxicity, but unlike with TCDD, lethality is due to chylous ascites rather than wasting syndrome.

Peritoneal lymphoma with ascites mimicking portal hypertensive ascites: A case report

RATIONALE

Lymphoma with an initial manifestation of ascites and peritoneal invasion is rare.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 65-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with a 3-week history of abdominal distention, anorexia, and night sweating, and a 2-week history of melena. She was a silent hepatitis B virus carrier. Abdominal ultrasound showed massive ascites without cirrhosis. Abdominal computed tomography revealed ascites, infiltrative peritoneal lesions with omental cake appearance, and lymphadenopathies.

DIAGNOSIS

We performed paracentesis and the ascites cytology was obtained. The patient also underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy, which showed ulcerative tumors in the stomach. Both ascites cytology and pathology of the gastric tumors confirmed the diagnosis of B-cell lymphoma.

INTERVENTIONS

This patient received 7 cycles of chemotherapy.

OUTCOMES

Follow-up imaging studies revealed partial remission of lymphoma, but an enlargement of residual tumors in omentum and mesentery, which resulted in intractable ascites and rapid deterioration of performance status. Despite a change of regimen of chemotherapy, this patient expired 10 months after diagnosis.

LESSONS

Lymphoma should be one of the differential diagnoses in patients with intractable ascites not attributable to other comorbidities.

Ascites relative enhancement during hepatobiliary phase after Gd-BOPTA administration: a new promising tool for characterising abdominal free fluid of unknown origin

OBJECTIVES

To correlate the degree of ascites enhancement during hepatobiliary phase after gadobenate dimeglumine (Gd-BOPTA) administration with ascites aetiology.

METHODS

IRB-approved retrospective study, need for informed consent was waived. We included 74 consecutive ascitic patients who underwent Gd-BOPTA-enhanced liver MRI including hepatobiliary phase (HBP) images between January 2014 and December 2017. Ascites appearance on unenhanced and HBP images was classified as hypo-, iso- or hyperintense in comparison to paraspinal muscles. Ascites signal intensity on unenhanced and HBP images was measured using round ROIs and was normalised to paraspinal muscles (NSI). Normalised relative enhancement (NRE) between native phase and HBP was calculated. The results were related to ascites aetiology using Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests.

RESULTS

On native images, ascites appeared hypointense in 95.9% of the cases and isointense in 4.1%, whereas on HBP images, it appeared hyperintense in 59.4% of the cases, isointense in 36.5% and hypointense in 4.1%. Mean ascites NSI was 0.52 on unenhanced images and 1.50 on HBP ones (p < 0.0001). Mean ascites NRE was 201 ± 133%. Ascites of non-malignant aetiology showed mean NRE of 210 ± 134%, whereas malignant ascites showed mean NRE of 92 ± 20% (p = 0.001). ROC analysis showed that a NRE < 112.5% correlates with malignant aetiology with 100% sensitivity and 83.4% specificity (LR = 5.667). NRE did not show any significant correlation with ascites thickness, eGFR and time interval between contrast administration and HBP acquisition (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Ascites NRE in HBP after Gd-BOPTA administration is significantly lower in patients with ascites secondary to peritoneal carcinomatosis than in patients with non-malignant ascites.

KEY POINTS

• Ascites enhancement in the hepatobiliary phase after Gd-BOPTA administration may determine false positive findings when looking for biliary leaks. • Ascites enhancement in the hepatobiliary phase after Gd-BOPTA administration is lower in patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis than in patients with portal hypertension or congestive heart failure. • None of the patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis showed an ascites enhancement of more than 112% as compared with unenhanced images.

Chinese guidelines on the management of ascites and its related complications in cirrhosis

The Chinese Society of Hepatology developed the current guidelines for the Management of Ascites and Its Related Complications in Cirrhosis based on the published evidences and the panelists' consensus. The guidelines provided recommendations for the diagnosis and management of cirrhotic ascites emphasizing a step-wise approach with the first-, second-, and third-line therapy. For refractory ascites, vasoconstrictors and albumin are recommended for splanchnic vasodilation and selective vasopressin (V2) receptor antagonists for moderate-to-severe hyponatremia. For spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, empirical anti-infection treatment was recommended based on the local microbiological examination of community- or hospital-acquired infections. For hepatorenal syndrome, the administration of vasopressor terlipressin and albumin is recommended.

Comparison of Killing Activity of Micafungin Against Six Candida Species Isolated from Peritoneal and Pleural Cavities in RPMI-1640, 10 and 30% Serum

Currently echinocandins are recommended in Candida peritonitis and pleuritis. We determined micafungin killing rates (k values) at therapeutic concentrations (0.25-2 mg/L) in RPMI-1640 with and without 10 and 30% serum mimicking in vivo conditions against six Candida species isolated from peritoneal and pleural fluid. In RPMI-1640, micafungin was fungicidal against C. glabrata, C. krusei and C. kefyr within 2.27 ± 10.68, 2.69 ± 10.29 and 3.10 ± 4.41 h, respectively, while was fungistatic against C. albicans, C. tropicalis and C. parapsilosis. In 10% serum, ≥ 0.25, ≥ 0.5, ≥ 0.5 and ≥ 1 mg/L micafungin produced positive k values (killing) for all C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. kefyr and C. krusei, respectively. In 30% serum, 2 mg/L micafungin produced killing against all C. albicans, C. glabrata and C. kefyr isolates, but was ineffective against C. krusei, C. parapsilosis and 2 of 3 C. tropicalis. Micafungin exposure should be increased against non-albicans species to eradicate fungi from peritoneal and pleural cavities.

Histoplasma meets Crohn's disease: a rare case of new-onset ascites

A 53-year-old man with Crohn's disease treated with adalimumab was hospitalised with abdominal pain, fatigue, fever and chills. CT scan of the abdomen showed chronic thickening of the terminal ileum and cecum and new-onset ascites. Further studies revealed weakly positive urine and serum histoplasma antigen. Laparoscopy revealed metastatic caking of the omentum and abdominal wall; peritoneal biopsy demonstrated organisms morphologically consistent with Histoplasma capsulatum No dissemination outside of the peritoneal cavity was evident. The patient completed 2 weeks of liposomal amphotericin B followed by oral itraconazole for 1 year. Adalimumab therapy was held for 10 weeks, then restarted. Presenting symptoms resolved following initiation of antifungal therapy. Follow-up MRI of his abdomen demonstrated resolution of ascites. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of histoplasmosis presenting as peritonitis in a patient with Crohn's disease receiving antitumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) therapy. Many clinicians are aware that patients receiving anti-TNF-α therapy are at increased risk for histoplasmosis, but may fail to consider the diagnosis in the absence of lung involvement.

Prognostic Significance of Blood, Serum, and Ascites Parameters in Patients with Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma or Peritoneal Carcinomatosis

To determine effects of the biochemical and cytological properties of blood, serum, and ascites on survival of patients with malignant peritoneal effusion (MPeE), including malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPeM) and peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC), we conducted a retrospective study of patients with MPeE and healthy controls. Potential prognostic factors were identified as follows: age, sex, blood neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), serum parameters, ascites parameters, serum-ascites albumin gradient, and the ascites-serum LDH ratio. Compared to those of the control group, serum albumin levels were significantly lower, and the NLR and serum LDH levels were significantly higher in the MPeE group. Overall survival (OS) was longer in patients with MPeM compared to that in patients with PC. Compared with patients in the MPeM, patients with PC had higher NLRs, ascites glucose levels, serum-ascites albumin gradients, and serum LDH levels. In contrast, their ascites albumin levels and ascites-serum LDH ratios were lower. Univariate analyses indicated that the NLR, serum LDH levels, ascites LDH levels, ascites coenocyte levels, and the ascites coenocyte-to-monocyte ratios affected the OS. Multivariate analyses identified only serum and ascites LDH levels as independent prognostic factors.

Chylous Ascites: A Review of Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment

Chylous ascites (CA) is a rare form of ascites that results from the leakage of lipid-rich lymph into the peritoneal cavity. This usually occurs due to trauma and rupture of the lymphatics or increased peritoneal lymphatic pressure secondary to obstruction. The underlying etiologies for CA have been classified as traumatic, congenital, infectious, neoplastic, postoperative, cirrhotic or cardiogenic. Since malignancy and cirrhosis account for about two-thirds of all the cases of CA in Western countries, in this article we have attempted to reclassify CA based on portal and non-portal etiologies. The diagnosis of CA is based on the distinct characteristic of the ascitic fluid which includes a milky appearance and a triglyceride level of >200 mg/dL. The management consists of identifying and treating the underlying disease process, dietary modification, and diuretics. Some studies have also supported the use of agents such as orlistat, somatostatin, octreotide and etilefrine. Paracentesis and surgical interventions in the form of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (commonly known as TIPS), peritoneal shunt, angiography with embolization of a leaking vessel, and laparotomy remain as treatment options for cases refractory to medical management.

Killing Activity of Micafungin Against Candida albicans, C. dubliniensis and Candida africana in the Presence of Human Serum

We compared killing activity of micafungin in time-kill experiments in RPMI-1640 with and without 50% serum against Candida albicans, Candida dubliniensis and Candida africana reference strains and clinical isolates. Killing rates (k values) were determined for each strain and concentration. In RPMI-1640 MIC ranges were 0.015-0.03, 0.015-0.03 and 0.015 mg/L against C. albicans, C. dubliniensis and C. africana, respectively. In 50% serum MIC values for the three species increased 16- to 64-fold. In RPMI-1640 micafungin was fungicidal against two of three C. albicans isolates at 16 and 32 mg/L within 14.54 h and fungistatic against all C. africana and C. dubliniensis. Fifty per cent serum significantly decreased the growth rate of C. africana, but not of the other two species; weak in vivo replication ability of C. africana was confirmed in murine model. In 50% serum micafungin at 0.25 and 1 mg/L did not inhibit any of the three species (k values were always negative). Micafungin killing rate in 50% serum at 4, 16 and 32 mg/L was significantly decreased for C. albicans, but increased for C. dubliniensis compared to RPMI-1640. Killing activity of micafungin against C. africana was comparable or higher in 50% serum than in RPMI-1640. Although micafungin is a highly protein-bound drug, it was equally effective against the species of the C. albicans complex in 50% serum at therapeutic trough concentration (4 mg/L). Both in vitro and in vivo data confirmed the low virulence of C. africana compared to the two sibling species.

Should We Use the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) to Predict Mortality After Colorectal Surgery?

We sought to determine the accuracy of the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease and the Mayo Clinic Postoperative Mortality Risk in Patients with Cirrhosis Calculator in patients with ascites who underwent colorectal surgery. The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients with ascites who underwent a major colorectal operation. Predicted 90-day mortality rate based on the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease and 30-day mortality based on the Mayo Clinic Postoperative Mortality Risk in Patients with Cirrhosis Calculator were compared with observed 30-day mortality. The cohort contained 3137 patients with ascites who underwent a colorectal operation. The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease predicted that 252 (8 %) of patients with ascites undergoing colorectal operations would die within 90 days postoperatively, yet we observed 821 deaths (26 % mortality) within 30 days after surgery (p < 0.001). The Mayo Clinic Postoperative Mortality Risk in Patients with Cirrhosis Calculator predicted that 491 (16.6 % mortality) of patients with ascites undergoing colorectal operations would die within 30 days postoperatively, yet we observed 707 (23.9 % mortality) at 30 days (p < 0.01). We concluded that the current risk prediction models significantly under predict mortality in patients with ascites who underwent colorectal surgery.