ABSTRACT

Ascites is the accumulation of free fluid within the peritoneal cavity. In a patient with new-onset ascites, diagnostic paracentesis should be always performed regardless of the cause. Approximately 85% of cases of ascites are due to liver cirrhosis. In about 15% of patients with ascites, there is nonhepatic cause of fluid retention. Ascites is the most common major complication of cirrhosis. Approximately 50% of patients with compensated cirrhosis develop ascites during 10 years of observation, and cirrhotic patients with ascites are associated with a 50% mortality over two years. In this article, clinic, pathophysiologic and diagnostic features and treatment of cirrhotic ascites are reviewed.