The absolute granulocyte count in ascites fluid. An aid to the diagnosis of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

The absolute granulocyte count of peritoneal fluid was determined for 98 consecutive patients with ascites in order to assess its value as an early indication of bacterial infection. The absolute granulocyte count was found to be more sensitive and specific than either the total leukocyte count or differential count alone. When the absolute granulocyte count in ascites fluid is greater than 250 per cu mm, then it is likely that infection is present.