title: [Ascites complicating cirrhosis].
abstract: Cirrhotic ascites is the consequence of excessive water and sodium reabsorption by the kidney; due to portal hypertension, the fluid localises in the peritoneal cavity. The cause of the renal anomaly is hepatic failure. Occurrence of ascites in cirrhosis indicates poor prognosis and the need to consider transplantation. Echographic signs of ascites are sensitive and specific. Infected ascites is diagnosed on the basis granulocyte count increased over 250/microL. Treatment consists of a salt-free diet and diuretics, and of evacuation by puncture while avoiding induction of hypovolaemia.
authors.affiliation: Service d'hépatologie, Hôpital Beaujon, Clichy.
authors.forename: D C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Valla
mesh_terms: D001201:Ascites / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000378:metabolism; D008103:Liver Cirrhosis / Q000150:complications*; D009318:Natriuresis; D011379:Prognosis; D012964:Sodium / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D012964:Sodium