An ascitic fluid absolute neutrophil count of 1000/µL is most indicative of:
A) Cirrhosis
B) Malignancy
C) Bacterial peritonitis
D) Blunt trauma injury

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ascitic fluid absolute neutrophil count (ANC) of more than 250/µL is considered a sign of infection or inflammation in the peritoneal cavity, and an ANC of more than 500/µL is highly suggestive of bacterial peritonitis. An ANC of 1000/µL is strongly indicative of bacterial peritonitis. Therefore, C is the correct answer. A is incorrect because cirrhosis may result in ascites but is not typically associated with a high ANC. B is incorrect because malignancy typically does not cause a high ANC in ascitic fluid. D is incorrect because blunt trauma injury does not cause a high ANC in ascitic fluid.

An Ascitic Fluid Absolute Neutrophil Count of 1000/µL Is Most