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06-28-2011, 08:01 AM
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Abdomen Ascites
Ascites is a gastroenterological term for an accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity. The medical condition is also known as peritoneal cavity fluid, peritoneal fluid excess, hydroperitoneum or more archaically as abdominal dropsy. Although most commonly due to cirrhosis and severe liver disease, its presence can portend other significant medical problems. Diagnosis of the cause is usually with blood tests, an ultrasound scan of the abdomen, and direct removal of the fluid by needle or paracentesis (which may also be therapeutic). Treatment may be with medication (diuretics), paracentesis, or other treatments directed at the cause. Abdomen symetrically distended secondary to fluid buildup in peritoneal cavity. Note bulging flanks as fluid distributes to most dependent areas of abdomen. skin is also yellowed due to hyperbilirubinemia: Lateral view of abdomen tensely distended due to ascites: Ascites with Shifting Dullness: Ascitic fluid will flow to the most dependent portions of the abdomen. The air-filled intestines will float on top of this liquid. The technique of shifting dullness makes use of this relationship in order to detect the presence of ascitic fluid: ![]() ![]() |