The diagnosis of tuberculous ascites in a rural African community

Tuberculous ascites can be a difficult condition to diagnose. In the rural African population served by Jane Furse Hospital both tuberculosis and ascites are common conditions. Between 1 November 1982 and 31 October 1983, 80 patients were admitted with ascites. Open peritoneal biopsy was used in 18 patients in whom the cause was uncertain. In 5, biopsy showed caseating tuberculosis in the absence of any other evidence of active disease. In 6 the biopsy showed non specific changes which may be associated with tuberculosis or cirrhosis of the liver. No significant complications were encountered and it was concluded that this procedure was a useful, safe and rapid means of diagnosing tuberculous peritonitis.