ASCITIC FLUID FOR ADA

Diagnosing tuberculous peritonitis (TBP) poses challenges due to its nonspecific symptoms and the limitations of conventional diagnostic methods. However, recent advancements have highlighted the usefulness of measuring ascitic adenosine deaminase (ADA). In a case involving a 93-year-old male with substantial ascites, conventional treatments were ineffective despite findings of exudative ascitic fluid. Determining the ADA level in the ascites through paracentesis revealed elevated levels, prompting suspicion of TBP. This led to an exploratory laparoscopy, confirming the diagnosis of TBP. This case underscores the value of ascitic ADA measurement in facilitating the diagnosis of TBP when conventional approaches may fall short.