Sonographic detection of ascites in liver disease.
In a prospective study of 132 men suspected to have liver disease, ultrasound defined ascites in 62. Patients with minimal ascites were most likely to have subtle fluid collections around the liver. When this minimal ascites was confined superior to the liver, real-time sector units were unable to detect it with medium-focus transducers. A right lateral decubitus position (right side down) for detection of small amounts of fluid was superfluous.
D001201:Ascites / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D008107:Liver Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D014463:Ultrasonography