Descriptive data of patients with SBP in Minia university hospital

Background: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a frequent and serious complication in cirrhotic patients with ascites. Early recognition of clinical and laboratory markers is crucial for timely diagnosis and management. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and laboratory characteristics associated with SBP among patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites admitted to Minia University Hospital. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted involving 150 patients aged 18–65 years with liver cirrhosis and ascites. Participants were divided into three groups: culture-positive SBP, culture-negative SBP, and non-SBP. Exclusion criteria included patients with secondary peritonitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, prior antibiotic use, and hepatorenal syndrome. Results: Baseline demographics and liver disease severity (age, sex, HCV/HBV status, and Child-Pugh score) did not differ significantly between SBP and non-SBP groups. However, SBP patients showed a significantly higher frequency of abdominal pain (57% vs. 0%) and fever (47% vs. 0%) (p<0.001). Laboratory findings also revealed elevated total leukocyte and neutrophil counts in SBP patients (p<0.01). Conclusion: Abdominal pain, fever, and elevated leukocyte and neutrophil counts are strongly associated with SBP in cirrhotic patients with ascites.