40. Ascitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is ascites?
A
The abnormal accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity and is a common complication of portal hypertension.
2
Q
What are some of the causes of ascites?
A
- Liver cirrhosis
- Acute liver failure
- Hypoalbuminemia (EJ: nephrotic syndrome).
- Chronic heart failure
- Inflammation of abdominal viscera (EJ: pancreatitis)
- Malignancies.
3
Q
Why is the serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) important?
A
It is essential to determine the underlying cause of ascites.
A high SAAG indicates that the ascites is secondary to portal hypertension.
4
Q
What is the serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG)?
A
The difference between albumin levels in serum and ascitic fluid.
5
Q
What does an ascitic fluid neutrophil count ≥ 250 cells/mm3 indicate?
A
An ascitic fluid neutrophil count ≥ 250 cells/mm3 indicates spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), which should be urgently managed with empiric antibiotic therapy.
