Ascites

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" Ascites is a detectable collection of free fluid in the peritoneal

cavity. Ascitic fluid is derived from the vascular compartment

subserving the hepatosplanchnic viscera. Two factors are important in

the formation of ascites: an increased total body sodium and water, and

increased sinusoidal portal pressure. In cirrhosis, hepatic dysfunction

and sinusoidal portal pressure probably both send a message to the

kidney to retain excess sodium and fluid, while the portal hypertension

serves to localize excess fluid to the peritoneal cavity rather than the

periphery. Portal hypertension alone without hepatic dysfunction rarely

results in ascites. "

For more reading in this chapter, please see:

First Principles of Gastroenterology

Chapter 14

Section 12

" Ascites " :

http://gastroresource.com/GITextbook/En/Chapter14/14-12.htm

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Mayo Clinic in Rochester

http://www.mayoclinic.org/rochester

s Hopkins Medicine

http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org