title: Investigation of ascites--are we doing enough?
abstract: A case of ascites with peritonitis is described. Delayed diagnosis might have contributed to the death of our patient. The current tools used in investigating ascites with peritonitis and a review of the existing guidelines for a workup of these patients are discussed. The use of the laparoscopic technique is recommended.
authors.affiliation: Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Health Science Building, University of Zimbabwe, P O Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe. kbhagat@healthnet.zw
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Bhagat
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Mamutse
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Jonsson
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000855:Anorexia / Q000382:microbiology; D001201:Ascites / Q000382:microbiology*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D003951:Diagnostic Errors; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005221:Fatigue / Q000382:microbiology; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D008297:Male; D014395:Peritonitis, Tuberculous / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D013997:Time Factors