[Diagnostic value of serum-ascites albumin gradient]

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic value and efficacy of the serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG).

Methods: One hundred and thirty six patients with ascites fluid were divided into 5 groups: cirrhosis group (Group A, 42 cases), hepatocellular carcinoma group (Group B, 20 cases), spontaneous peritenitis group (Group C, 10 cases), tuberculous peritenitis group (Group D, 40 cases), and periteneal carcinomatosis group (Group E, 24 cases). Group A, B, and C all had portal hypertension. Ascites fluid from paracentesis was analyzed before the treatment.

Results: The ascites total protein (ATP) concentration in Group A, B, and C was less than 25 g/L but was more than 25 g/L in Group D and E. SAAG was more than 11 g/L in Group A, B, and C but less than 11 g/L in Group D and E. There was significant difference between the high SAAG group (> or = 11.0 g/L) and the low SAAG group (P < 0.01). PMN count was less than 250 x 10(6)/L in Group A, B, and E but more than 250 x 10(6)/L in Group C and D. There was no significant difference between Group C and D (P = 0.662).

Conclusion: SAAG demonstrates that patients with ascites fluid possess the basis of portal hypertension. PMN count represents infective ascites. SAAG combined with PMN can effectively enhance the diagnostic value of ascites fluid tests. SAAG classification can be considered to be a novel standard in ascites fluid analysis.