The penetration of ceftazidime into peritoneal fluid in patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery

Using paper discs we have made repeated observations during laparotomy in 31 patients after giving 1 g of ceftazidime intravenously. Samples of serum were obtained simultaneously. Rapid transfer of antibiotic occurred. Peak concentration in peritoneal fluid occurred within 10 minutes of injection (66.7 mg/l, S.E. +/- 10.6), the concurrent mean serum level being 106.0 mg/l (S.E. +/- 10.7). Thereafter levels in serum and peritoneal fluid fell roughly in parallel.