Diagnostic Validity of Leucocyte Esterase Dipstick Tests for Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis in Patients with Cirrhosis

Background: One of the worst sequelae cirrhosis and ascites is spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). Early detection treatment SBP are therefore essential for survival because this complication linked to a high death risk if antibiotics not administered promptly. Leukocyte esterase dipstick testing can identify quickly. Objective: To evaluate diagnostic accuracy leucocyte test taking ascitic fluid neutrophil count as gold standard. Study Design: Cross Sectional Settings: Department Gastroenterology, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar Duration: This study was conducted from 1st July 2021 till 30th June 2022 Materials Methods: Two samples (10cc each) aspirate were obtained patients with on admission hospital, presenting ascites, fever abdominal pain. Bedside performed one sample other sent hospital laboratory analysis count. The results both modalities compared which recorded in terms sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value negative predictive. Results: Mean age 46.68 ± 10.239 years. A total 170 enrolled. Age ranged 18 75 Male 113 (66.5%) while 57 (33.5%) female. Hepatitis C leading cause observed 89 (52.4%). 89.7%, 96.2%, 87.5% 96.9% respectively. Conclusion: Leucocyte convenient, inexpensive rapid modality better accuracy. Keywords: Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis, Esterase Dipstick test, Diagnostic Accuracy.