Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in ascitic fluid: a case of viral peritonitis?

SARS Coronavirus-2 detection in different clinical specimens, including serum and stool, has raised important insights about its dynamics and pathogenesis, but some details remain to be understood.

In that respect, disrupt viral control seen in immunocompromising conditions can help unveil pathogenetic mechanisms and characterize new Coronavirus Disease-19 immunological and clinical aspects in general.

We herein report a case of cirrhosis decompensation with ascites due to COVID-19 and unprecedented detection of SARS-CoV-2 in ascitic fluid, hence a possible acute viral peritonitis, as well as in serum, leading to a fatal disseminated infection.