Assessment of Serum-Ascites Vitamin D Gradient (SADG) in Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

Theodor Bilharz Research Institute

Bibliographic Information

Authors: Awad S.A.; El Shewi M.E.; Abd-El-aliem S.M.; Sabry O.M.

Journal: Benha Medical Journal

Publisher: Benha University Faculty of Medicine

Publication Date: 7 September 2024

Volume / Issue: Volume 42 / Issue 1

Pages: 56–67

ISSN: 1110208X

DOI: 10.21608/bmfj.2024.295275.2096

Scopus: View on Scopus

Document Type: Article


Authors and Affiliations

Awad S.A., Department of Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt; El Shewi M.E., Department of Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt; Abd-El-aliem S.M., Department of Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt; Sabry O.M., Department of Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Infectious Diseases, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Giza, Egypt


Abstract

Background: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a severe infection occurring in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis and ascites. The diagnosis of SBP is typically confirmed by an ascitic fluid polymorphonuclear (PMN) count ≥250 cells/mm³. Recent studies suggest that vitamin D, due to its immunomodulatory properties, may play a role in the pathophysiology of SBP. This study aimed to evaluate the serum-ascites vitamin D gradient (SADG) as a potential diagnostic marker for SBP. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 50 cirrhotic patients with portal hypertensive ascites, divided into two groups: 25 patients with SBP (Group I) and 25 patients without SBP (Group II). Serum and ascitic fluid samples were collected to measure 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels, from which the SADG was calculated. Additional biochemical and clinical data were also recorded. Results: The SADG was significantly lower in the SBP group compared to the non-SBP group (1.6 ± 4.4 ng/mL vs. 3.0 ± 4.3 ng/mL; p = 0.001). A SADG cutoff value of <0.55 ng/mL demonstrated 72% sensitivity and 76% specificity (AUC = 0.77, p = 0.0008) for distinguishing between the two groups. Serum vitamin D levels were also significantly lower in SBP patients (7.9 ± 5.5 ng/mL vs. 11.4 ± 6.1 ng/mL; p = 0.014). Conclusions: SADG appears to be a promising marker for the diagnosis of SBP in cirrhotic patients with ascites. Its utility in clinical practice could enhance early detection and management of this life-threatening condition. © 2025, Benha University Faculty of Medicine. All rights reserved.


Keywords

Liver Cirrhosis; Serum-Ascites Vitamin D Gradient; Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis


Citation Information

Scopus Citations: 0


For comprehensive information about the Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), its institutional activities, scientific and research achievements, clinical and hospital services, and the diverse expertise offered through its 22 specialized research and clinical departments, as well as opportunities for professional training, specialized workshops, and scientific conferences, readers are invited to visit the Institute’s official website.

The website provides regularly updated information on the Institute’s latest news, research activities, scientific initiatives, clinical services, institutional programs, and academic and professional opportunities.

English Website: https://www.tbri.sci.eg/en/

Arabic Website: https://www.tbri.sci.eg/ar/

Prepared and Uploaded by:

Abdalla F. Abdalla

Electronic Portal Unit

Electronic Portal Unit

Popular Posts

A cost-performance index for nano-optical biosensor evaluation: Systematic evaluation of europium–salicylate luminescent platforms for GPC3-targeted early HCC diagnosis

Interpretation of liver stiffness measurement in patients with mixed liver disease etiologies

Holothuria arenicola Extract-Loaded Polycaprolactone Nanocapsules Attenuate Bile Duct Ligation-Induced Acute Liver Injury

Mytilus edulis-mediated green synthesis of selenium nanoparticles with antimicrobial and molluscicidal applications

Microbial levan potentiates hepatic retention and antitumor activity of a PEGylated benzimidazole–curcumin nanocomplex through TLR2–FXR/FGF15-associated immunometabolic remodeling in experimental liver cancer

Variable clinical presentations of pulmonary hydatid cysts: a four-case series from a single center in United Arab Emirates, non-endemic region

Corrigendum to ‘Eco-friendly approach for the removal and simultaneous detection of cyanide toxins from drinking and wastewater sources’ [Environ. Pollut. 385 (2025) 127094]