Management of ascites in cirrhosis.

Abstract

Ascites is one of the earliest and most common complications of patients with cirrhosis. A typical circulatory dysfunction characterized by arterial vasodilation, high cardiac output and stimulation of vasoactive systems is commonly present in these patients and is associated with a poor prognosis. The treatment of ascites has been based on the combination of a low-sodium diet and the administration of diuretics. The reintroduction of paracentesis and the recent introduction of the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) are the most relevant innovations in the treatment of ascites during the past two decades, although controlled trials in large series of patients are needed to delineate whether TIPS is a safe and useful treatment for these patients.

• Authors: R Bataller, V Arroyo, P Ginès
• Journal: Journal of gastroenterology and hepatology (J Gastroenterol Hepatol) Vol. 12 Issue 11 Pg. 723-33 (Nov 1997) ISSN: 0815-9319 [Print] Australia
• PMID: 9430037 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Diuretics

Topics

• Ascites (etiology, mortality, therapy)
• Bed Rest
• Diet, Sodium-Restricted
• Disease Management
• Diuretics (therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Liver Cirrhosis (complications, mortality, therapy)
• Liver Transplantation
• Survival Rate