Ultrasound-guided collection of peritoneal fluid in healthy camels (Camelus dromedarius) and its biochemical analysis

The purpose of this study was: (1) to establish a method for percutaneous ultrasound-guided aspiration of peritoneal fluid (PF) in healthy camels, (2) to assess the PF constituents, and (3) to compare these concentrations with those in serum of the same animals. From 15 healthy camels (Camelus dromedarius), whole blood, serum samples, as well as PF, were collected and serum biochemistry was done to compare PF values. All serum and PF samples was examined for comp. By means of ultrasonography, free PF was imaged in two locations; anteriorly in the triangular space between the dorsal ruminal sac and reticulum and; posteriorly 10-cm cranial to the umbilicus. In 12 of the 15 camels, the fluid was visualised in the 2 locations. Free PF was only visible anteriorly in 2 animals. We could not image free PF in the other location. The volume of PF ranged from 3 to 18 mL (mean 11 ± 4.7 mL); it was clear and colourless. Few white blood cells were found in the PF samples (0.10 ± 0.03 × 109 cells/L). Compared to serum values, total protein, albumin and globulin were lower in PF (p < 0.001). Similarly, the serum activity of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and creatine kinase were lower in PF compared to serum values (p < 0.05). This study gives promising results concerning the normal composition of PF and will be useful in the assessment of PF in diseased camels.