Urinalysis and Body Fluids 6th Edition by Majorie DiLorenzo, Susan Strasinger

Exercise 10

Paracentesis is performed on a patient with ascites. The fluid appears turbid and has an elevated WBC count.

Additional tests ordered include an absolute granulocyte count, amylase, creatinine, CEA, and CA 125.

a. What is the purpose for the absolute granulocyte count? If it is less than 250 cells/mL, what condition is indicated?

b. If the amylase level is elevated, what is its significance? State an additional test that might be ordered.

c. Explain the significance of an elevated creatinine level.

d. What is the purpose of the CEA and CA 125 tests?

Step 1 of 5

Paracentesis:

Paracentesis is the process of taking peritoneal fluid sample by puncturing peritoneal cavity using a needle.

Ascites:

The “ascites” is another name for peritoneal effusion.

• The fluid accumulation between the peritoneal membranes is named “ascites” and the fluid is generally called as ascitic fluid instead of “peritoneal fluid”

• Ascitic transudates are often caused by the hepatic disorders such as “cirrhosis”