Question

A patient with cirrhosis and ascites presents with fever and abdominal pain. Diagnostic paracentesis reveals PMN 400 cells/mm³. What is the optimal initial management?

Accepted Answer

Start IV ceftriaxone and give albumin 1.5 g/kg on day 1 and 1.0 g/kg on day 3

Answer

Start lactulose only

Answer

Increase furosemide dose and observe

Answer

Start IV vancomycin

Answer

No treatment needed; monitor

Practice question

A patient with cirrhosis and ascites presents with fever and abdominal pain. Diagnostic paracentesis reveals PMN 400 cells/mm³. What is the optimal initial management?