pathology

Overview Ascites refers to the presence of pathological fluid within the abdominal cavity. In men, no fluid should be present. In women, up to 20 mls may be considered normal depending on the timing of their menstrual cycle. Ascites is most commonly associated with liver disease. In this context, ascites develops due to portal hypertension. This refers to increased pressure within the portal venous system that drains blood from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver. Other causes of ascites are broadly due to local infiltration (e.g. tumour) of the peritoneal lining, inflammation or infection.     Aetiology Ascites can be