Ascites Questions & Answers

Updated: Dec 29, 2017
  • Author: Rahil Shah, MD; Chief Editor: Praveen K Roy, MD, MSc  more...
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Questions & Answers

Overview

What are ascites?

What is the pathophysiology of ascites formation?

What are the morbidity rates for ascites?

How does the presence of intraperitoneal fluid in ascites differ between males and females?

What is the prognosis of ascites?

What information about ascites should patients receive?

Presentation

What is the clinical presentation of ascites?

What should be the focus of the clinical history for ascites?

Which clinical history is characteristic of ascites?

What should be included in the physical exam for ascites?

What causes ascites formation in normal peritoneum?

What causes ascites formation in diseased peritoneum?

How is peritonitis diagnosed in patients with ascites?

What are complications of paracentesis in ascites?

How is acute kidney injury in ascites managed?

DDX

What are the differential diagnoses for Ascites?

Workup

What is included in the workup of ascites?

What is the role of lab studies in the workup of ascites?

What is the role of radiography in the workup of ascites?

What is the role of ultrasonography in the workup of ascites?

What is the role of CT scanning in the workup of ascites?

What is the role of paracentesis in the workup of ascites?

How is ascites staged?

Treatment

What is included in medical management of ascites?

What is the treatment of choice for chylous ascites?

What is the role of surgery in the treatment of ascites?

Which specialist consultations are needed for the management of ascites?

What are dietary restrictions for the treatment of ascites?

What is included in long-term monitoring for ascites?

Medications

What are the goals of drug treatment for ascites?

Which medications in the drug class Diuretics are used in the treatment of Ascites?