Increased Mortality with Intermediate Ascitic Polymorphonuclear Cell Counts Amongst Patients with Cirrhosis: Time to Redefine the Care Approach.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a serious complication in patients with decompensated cirrhosis and ascites. Diagnosis typically relies on an ascitic polymorphonuclear (A-PMN) cell count ≥ 250 cells/high-power field (HPF).

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 117 hospitalized patients with acute decompensation of chronic liver disease and a diagnostic paracentesis were evaluated. Clinical, laboratory, and imaging data were collected. Patients were stratified by A-PMN counts of ≤50, 51-249, or ≥250 cells/HPF. Additional analysis was performed with patients stratified by ascitic white blood cell (WBC) count and albumin. Mortality risk was assessed at 28, 90, and 365 days.

Results

Patients with A-PMN ≤ 50 cells/HPF had the lowest 28-day morta

SUBMITTER: Habib S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12641635 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature