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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Cirrhosis Complications: Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

Cirrhosis Complications: Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

Overview

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is an infection of fluid that builds up in the belly. It causes pain and swelling inside the belly. It may also cause a fever.

This infection most often occurs when a person has had cirrhosis for a long time. It can also occur in people with other conditions that cause fluid to build up in the belly. These can include kidney failure, heart failure, and some cancers. Sometimes the fluid builds up without a clear cause.

This infection is serious. Even if your symptoms are mild, you need medical care right away. If it is not treated, the illness gets worse fast and can be life-threatening. But most people who are treated with antibiotics get better.

How is it treated?

The infection is usually treated with antibiotics. Your doctor may do a procedure called paracentesis (say "pair-uh-sen-TEE-sus") to get a sample of fluid from your belly. The fluid can be tested to help find the cause of your symptoms. It can also help your doctor decide which medicines will work best to treat the infection.

Current as of: October 19, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024-2025 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

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