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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Diseases & Conditions > Ascites

Ascites

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

Pictures & Images

Ascites with Ovarian Cancer, CT Scan

Digestive System Organs

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Review Date : 4/26/2003
Reviewed By : David Webner, M.D., Department of Family Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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