Abstract

The diagnosis of tuberculous peritonitis may be quite difficult, especially when the disease coexists with hepatic cirrhosis, as emphasized by Burack and Hollister.1 Often it is discovered only at laparotomy or autopsy. Cultures of ascitic fluid for Mycobacterium tuberculosis have produced a poor yield.1–3 Peritoneoscopy is useful, but may be followed by complications, requires trained personnel, and an operating room. Valuable time may be lost while complicated and potentially hazardous procedures are undertaken. Percutaneous peritoneal needle biopsy has proven to be a valuable aid in the diagnosis of obscure intra-abdominal disease associated with ascites, and is a safe, simple and effective method of diagnosing tuberculous peritonitis permitting early and successful treatment.4–8