Definition
Ascites is excess fluid in the space between the membranes lining the abdomen and abdominal organs (the peritoneal cavity). This is typically caused by liver disease.

Disorders that may be associated with ascites include:

 
• Cirrhosis  
• hepatitis  
• portal vein thrombosis (clots in the veins of the liver)  
• constrictive pericarditis  
• congestive heart failure  
• Liver Cancer  
• protein-losing enteropathy  
• nephrotic syndrome  
• pancreatitis

Medical Encyclopedia

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