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Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis — UKMLA Revision Notes

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is an important clinical condition in Gastroenterology that is tested in the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (AKT). Medical students and doctors preparing for the UKMLA or PLAB 1 must understand the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, investigations, and evidence-based management of Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis as outlined in current NICE guidelines.

Key Facts

  • Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is a key condition on the GMC UKMLA Content Map
  • Commonly tested in the Gastroenterology section of the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test
  • Understand the pathophysiology, clinical features, investigations, and management
  • NICE guidelines provide the evidence base for management decisions
  • Consider differential diagnoses and red flag symptoms in clinical scenarios

Investigations

  • FBC, U&E, LFTs, CRP
  • Endoscopy (OGD/colonoscopy)
  • CT abdomen/pelvis
  • Stool cultures
  • Faecal calprotectin
  • Abdominal USS

Management

  • Dietary modification
  • PPI/H2 antagonist as indicated
  • Treat underlying cause (H. pylori eradication, IBD therapy)
  • Nutritional support
  • Gastroenterology follow-up
  • Endoscopic surveillance if required

Practice 2+ Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis Questions

Test your knowledge with SBA questions on Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and all 430 UKMLA Content Map conditions. Instant feedback, NICE guideline explanations, and spaced repetition included.