title: Giant abdominal cysts simulating ascites.
abstract: In two patients ascites was suspected, but large intra-abdominal cysts were found on laparotomy. They were of echinococcal and ovarian origin, respectively. When there is doubt about the nature of such abdominal distention, abdominal paracentesis should be avoided and ultrasonography used instead.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001201:Ascites / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004444:Echinococcosis, Hepatic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010048:Ovarian Cysts / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery