30/07/2026
🧬 ASCITIC FLUID IS NEVER “JUST FLUID”—EVERY CELL MAY HOLD THE DIAGNOSIS. 🔬
A reliable diagnosis requires more than simply identifying malignant cells. It begins with proper specimen collection and ends with integrated clinical, radiologic, immunocytochemical, and molecular findings.
Our 5-step approach:
1️⃣ Ensure adequate fresh fluid and prepare a cell block
2️⃣ Classify according to The International System (TIS)
3️⃣ Correlate with clinical history and imaging
4️⃣ Apply targeted immunocytochemistry when indicated
5️⃣ Preserve material for molecular testing and personalized therapy
⚠️ Inadequate volume, delayed transport, or failure to prepare a cell block may compromise diagnostic yield and limit essential ancillary testing.
🎯 The GOAL: Detect malignancy, determine its origin, and guide optimal patient management.
💾 Save this algorithm for clinical practice.
📤 Share it with your pathology, oncology, surgery, radiology, and laboratory teams.