Is detection of bacterial DNA in ascitic fluid of clinical relevance?

Abstract

We found no correlation between detection of bacterial DNA in ascites and SBP (polymorphonuclear count > 250/mm). In contrast to the patients with bacterial DNA in ascites, patients with SBP showed clinical signs of infection. This study provides no evidence that detection of bacterial DNA in ascites of patients with liver cirrhosis is of clinical or diagnostic relevance when using the panel of LightCycler SeptiFast Kit Mgrade.