A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia
Ascites
Definition
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Ascites is excess fluid in the space between the tissues lining the abdomen and abdominal organs (the peritoneal cavity).
Causes
Ascites is typically caused by liver disease. Disorders that may be associated with ascites include:
- Cirrhosis
- Hepatitis
- Portal vein thrombosis (clots in the veins of the liver)
- Constrictive pericarditis
- Congestive heart failure
- Liver cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Protein-losing enteropathy
- Nephrotic syndrome
- Pancreatitis
Treatment
Treatment may include medicines called diuretics, which help remove the fluid, and antibiotics, if infection develops.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Anyone who has ascites and develops new abdominal pain and fever should contact their health care provider immediately.
Review Date: 10/26/2006
Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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