Paracentesis is a minimally invasive procedure performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. This procedure helps relieve symptoms caused by abnormal fluid buildup in the abdomen or around the lungs, while also allowing physicians to analyze the fluid to determine the underlying cause. Conditions such as infection, cancer, liver disease, heart failure, and other organ disorders can often be identified through fluid analysis.
Paracentesis is used to remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity (ascites) to help relieve symptoms such as:
- Abdominal pain or pressure
- Abdominal bloating or distention
- Shortness of breath
- Constipation
- Indigestion or early fullness after eating
Fluid collected during paracentesis can be sent to the laboratory for testing to help determine the cause of fluid accumulation.
Paracentesis fluid analysis may help diagnose:
- Liver cirrhosis
- Portal hypertension
- Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- Malignancy (cancer)
- Pancreatitis
- Kidney or heart failure
