How is ascites diagnosed?
Several blood tests are commonly performed for ascites, including full blood count, electrolytes and renal function, liver enzymes, and glucose. If the cause is not apparent, serology for viruses known to cause hepatitis and ferritin may contribute
to the analysis.
Physical examination generally enables doctors to distinguish ascites from pregnancy, intestinal gas, obesity, or ovarian tumors. Ultrasound or computed tomography scans (CT) can detect even small amounts of fluid. Laboratory analysis of fluid extracted by inserting a needle through the abdominal wall (diagnostic paracentesis) can help identify the cause of the accumulation.
Ultrasound investigation with doppler studies can be an important help, and may identify such problems as Budd-Chiari syndrome, portal vein thrombosis and cirrhosis. Additionally, the sonographer can make an estimation of the amount of ascitic fluid.
Studies of the fluid removed by paracentesis (see below) may aid in the diagnosis. It can also help diagnose spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, a serious complication of ascites. |
More information on ascites
What is ascites? - Ascites is the presence of excess fluid in the peritoneal cavity. Ascites is more often associated with liver disease and other long-lasting (chronic) conditions.
What causes ascites? - Ascites occur in long-standing disorders including cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis without cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, and obstruction of the hepatic vein.
What're the symptoms of ascites? - Mild ascites is hard to notice, but severe ascites leads to abdominal distension. Some chronic ascites patients develop hepatic hydrothrorax.
How is ascites diagnosed? - Several blood tests are commonly performed for ascites, including full blood count, electrolytes and renal function, liver enzymes, and glucose.
What is the treatment for ascites? - The basic treatment for ascites is bed rest and a salt-restricted diet, usually combined with drugs called diuretics. |
|
