Abdominal: Ascites (brief)

Question 1

what is ascites?

Answer 1

excess fluid in the peritoneal cavity

Question 2

ascites is excess fluid of which cavity?

Answer 2

peritoneal cavity

Question 3

what are risk factors for ascites?

Answer 3

Cirrhosis of the liver. 
Drinking excess alcohol. 
High sodium diet.
Malignancy. 
Heart failure. 
Nephrotic syndrome. 
Protein-losing enteropathy. 
TB. 
Pancreatitis.
Hypothyroidism.
Latrogenic.

Question 4

what are clinical features of ascites?

Answer 4

• abdo distension
• weight gain
• abdo discomfort
• loss of appetite
• sense of fullness
• bloating
• nausea or indigestion, vomiting
• oedema
• SOB, dysponea
• haemorrhoids

Question 5

what investigations would you conduct to diagnose ascites?

Answer 5

• fluid sample

- imaging

Question 6

what is the treatment plan for ascites?

Answer 6

• low sodium diet

- diuretics (Spironolactone/furosemide)

Question 7

What are the causes of ascites?

Answer 7

1. Sodium and water retention
2. Portal hypertension
3. Low serum albumin I