Large-Volume Paracentesis in Treatment of Ascites
Authors: Paul S. Kellerman
Journal: Annals of Internal Medicine (1990)

Editorials15 June 1990Large-Volume Paracentesis in Treatment of AscitesPaul S. Kellerman, MD, Stuart L. Linas, MDPaul S. Kellerman, MDSearch for more papers by this author, Stuart L. Linas, MDSearch for more papers by this authorAuthor, Article, and Disclosure Informationhttps://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-112-12-889 SectionsAboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissions ShareFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditEmail ExcerptAscites occurs in most patients with severe cirrhosis. Although the presence of ascites is often obvious, smaller amounts of ascitic fluid can be difficult to diagnose. Ultrasonography has been helpful in diagnosing the presence and determining the cause of ascites (1). Hepatic outflow obstruction is central to ascites formation. Of continued debate is whether ascites formation is a primary event resulting in relative hypovolemia and secondary renal salt retention or is secondary to primary renal sodium avidity. 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Author, Article, and Disclosure InformationAuthors: Paul S. Kellerman, MD; Stuart L. 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