Ascitic fluid interleukin-6 levels in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis

Spontaneous ascites infection (SAI) is an important complication of decompe nsated cirrhosis. Its prototype form is spontaneous bacterial peritonitis ( SBP). We investigated the value of determining ascitic fluid interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in the diagnosis of SEP and in monitoring responses to therap y. The study group consisted of 28 patients with liver cirrhosis and ascite s. We diagnosed SEP in 16 patients. Ascitic fluid IL-6 levels were signific antly higher in patients with SEP than in those without this condition (195 7 +/- 65 pg/dl and 871 +/- 42 pg/dl, respectively P < 0.0001). Ascitic flui d IL-6 levels declined after treatment (1377 +/- 85 pg/dl, P < 0.01). These findings suggest an increase in local IL-6 synthesis in the peritoneal cav ity. We conclude that ascitic fluid IL-6 levels may be a useful tool for th e diagnosis and monitoring of SEP. Med Sci Res 27:167-168 (C) 1999 Lippinco tt Williams & Wilkins.