Considerations of the refractometer for CART

Abstract

CART (Cell-free and concentrated Ascites Reinfusion Therapy) has been reported to be practiced in various facilities in recent years as a treatment for refractory ascites, and the number of enforcement cases is increasing year by year. Nishijin hospital has been implementing CART since 1999. Before and after filtration concentration, TP measurement using a refractometer is carried out as a biochemical test of total protein (TP) and albumin, and as rapid measurement. The measurement principle is different between the biochemical test (Biuret method) and the refractometer, and measurement values can differ between the two tests. On examining the enforcement record of our hospital, we confirmed that the refractometer can be fully used as a confirmation method before action to the patient. From this fact, while refractometer needs close attention to use on ascites after collection, we consider it is useful as a quick measurement before action.