Polymerase Chain Reaction for Detecting Bacteria in Peritoneal Fluid

Polymerase chain reaction accurately detects bacteria in peritoneal fluid, guiding postoperative antibiotic treatment in patients with acute appendicitis. Results show concordance of 71.4% between PCR and conventional culture, with Escherichia coli and Bacteroides fragilis being the most common bacteria. Study highlights PCR’s potential in diagnosing bacterial infections, even in cases where conventional culture fails to detect pathogens, emphasizing its utility in clinical management.