Laparoendoscopic examination in ascites of unknown origin

Objective To investigate the diagnostic value of laparoendoscopic exploration and peritoneum biopsy in patients with ascites of unknown origin and to study the feasibility of replacing hard laparoendoscope with uhrathin gastroendoscope. Methods A total of 35 patients with ascites of unknown origin underwent laparoendoscopic exploration and biopsies were taken at suspected sites on peritoneum. Results Definite diagnosis was made in 33 patients after laparoendoscopy （94. 3% ）, among which there were 10 tuberculosis peritonitis （28.6%）, 7 metastatic peritoneal carcinoma （20%）, 5 liver cancer, 3 liver cirrhosis, 3 primary peritoneal carcinoma, 2 ovary cancer, 1 hepatovascular sarcoma, 1 spleen lymphoma and 1 acidophilic enteritis. No procedure related complications were observed. Conclusion Laparoendoscopy is safe and effective in target peritoneal biopsy, and is of great importance in diagnosis of ascites of unknown origin. Key words: Ascites ;  Laparoendoseopy