What is one of the common elements that indicates a positive DPL?

A positive diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL) is indicated by the presence of certain substances in the peritoneal fluid, which suggests intra-abdominal injury or pathology. The presence of food particles can indicate gastrointestinal perforation, which is a critical finding indicating that an injury may involve the abdominal viscera. Bile in the lavage fluid suggests a possible injury to the biliary tree or liver, as bile leaks into the peritoneal cavity in cases of trauma. Detection of bacteria in the fluid points towards the potential for infection or the presence of an intra-abdominal abscess, which indicates a significant underlying pathology that requires intervention.

Each of these components alone can indicate a clinically significant problem in the abdomen, and their presence together reinforces the probability of acute abdominal complications. Therefore, when DPL reveals food particles, bile, and bacteria, it strongly supports the diagnosis of traumatic injury or infection, confirming that all of these findings contribute to a positive DPL result. This highlights the importance of examining the characteristics of the fluid collected during DPL to guide further management and intervention.