Ascites

Abstract:

Ascites is defined as pathological accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity and is the most common clinical manifestation of hepatic decompensation. Approximately 50% of patients with cirrhosis will develop ascites within 10 years. Abdominal paracentesis with ascitic fluid analysis is a safe and cost-effective strategy in the differential diagnosis of ascites. Paracentesis is obligatory on hospital admission and on clinical signs and symptoms suggestive of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Routine ascitic fluid tests include cell count, total protein, albumin and culture. Treatment based on dietary sodium restriction and diuretic therapy with spironolactone and furosemide is the mainstay of therapy. Approximately 90% of cirrhotic patients with ascites respond to this therapy. 

Key words:
ascites; paracentesis; spironolactone; furosemide