Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites.

Aerobic enteric organisms, especially Escherichia coli, are the most common cause of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in alcoholic cirrhosis with ascites, despite the preponderance of anaerobic bacteria in the bowel flora. The major routes of infection are transmural migration of gastrointestinal flora, lymphatic spread, and hematogenous seeding. Most patients present with fever and chills, abdominal pain, leukocytosis, and hypotension, although some may be asymptomatic. Differentiation from secondary peritonitis, which is essential in determining appropriate therapy, is difficult. Microbiologic studies of the ascitic fluid can provide valuable clues in this regard. Although most patients respond favorably to antibiotic therapy, mortality is high because of complications of the underlying disorder.