The pathophysiologic basis for the treatment of cirrhotic ascites.
Advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of sodium retention and ascites formation in cirrhosis has helped improve the treatment of ascites in these patients. It is likely that further unraveling of these pathophysiologic changes will lead to the development of novel and better treatment options. For example, the development of aquaretic agents for the management of hyponatremia in cirrhosis may allow more effective use of diuretic therapy. The ultimate challenge is to use the understanding of the pathophysiology to develop new strategies to prevent the development of ascites in cirrhosis.
Wong
F
F
Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. florence.wong@utoronto.ca
Blendis
L
L
D001201:Ascites / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D001510:Bed Rest; D004039:Diet, Sodium-Restricted; D004232:Diuretics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008103:Liver Cirrhosis / Q000150:complications*; D016031:Liver Transplantation; D019152:Paracentesis; D010536:Peritoneovenous Shunt; D019168:Portasystemic Shunt, Transjugular Intrahepatic
D004232:Diuretics