ALB and portal hypertension: Laboratory tests in ascitic fluid initially include total and differential white blood cell (WBC) count, total protein, and albumin for calculation of the serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG).[6] To date, the serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) is the most sensitive and specific marker for the differentiation of ascites due to portal hypertension from ascites due to other causes, with a diagnostic accuracy of 97%,[2] and it is recommended by the American and European guidelines.[6,7] SAAG is obtained by subtracting the level of albumin in the ascitic fluid from that in the serum.