The diagnostic work-up in patients with ascites: current guidelines and future prospects

Neth J Med. 2016 Oct;74(8):330-335.

Abstract

Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity - ascites - is commonly encountered in clinical practice. Ascites can originate from hepatic, malignant, cardiac, renal, and infectious diseases. This review discusses the current recommended diagnostic approach towards the patient with ascites and summarises future diagnostic targets.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ascites / diagnosis*
  • Ascites / etiology
  • Ascitic Fluid / chemistry
  • Ascitic Fluid / cytology
  • Culture Techniques
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Heart Failure / complications
  • Heart Failure / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy
  • Liver Cirrhosis / complications
  • Liver Cirrhosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Neoplasms / complications
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Pancreatic Diseases / complications
  • Pancreatic Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Paracentesis
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Tuberculosis / complications
  • Tuberculosis / diagnosis*
  • Ultrasonography