*4.1.3 Diagnostic fluid markers in ascites*

The colour of ascetic fluid is a very essential marker in the diagnosis of the cause of ascites. The colour ranges from clear fluid to yellowish, reddish and opaque with flakes of fibrin and debris depending on the aetiology. It is therefore important to observe the above guidelines in paracentesis in order to avoid false discolouration of the fluid, thus affecting correct diagnosis. Various colours of ascetic fluid signify a different aetiology as shown below [37]:


## *4.1.4 Clinical examination (author's personal experience)*

Clinical examination is considered a useful tool in the identification of the cause of ascites. An elevated temperature would signify an underlying infectious or inflammatory condition such as bacterial tuberculosis. An elevated capillary refill time would signify a decreased circulatory volume as a result of cancerous or infectious

**Figure 1.** *Removal of ascites through the linea alba in an Alsatian breed of dog.*

condition. Auscultation of the heat reveals various cardiovascular diseases such as muffled heart sound which is consistent with pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade. Heart murmurs or irregular heartbeats are suggestive of right-sided heart failure. An elevated heartbeat or tachypnoea may result from dyspnea due to cranial displacement of the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity. Cardiovascular abnormalities are confirmed through the use of electrocardiograph and echocardiography.
