Indicator Dilution Method to Measure the Volume of Ascites

Dye: in the past bromcresol green was used

Parameters:

(1) concentration of dye in injected fluid

(2) volume of fluid injected

(3) concentration of dye in ascites fluid withdrawn 10-15 minutes later

(concentration of injected fluid) * (volume of fluid injected in mL) =

= (concentration in ascites fluid) * (volume of ascites fluid)

volume of ascites fluid =

= (concentration in injected fluid) * (volume of fluid injected) / (concentration in ascites fluid)

It is important that the dye is well-distributed throughout the ascites fluid to avoid error.