what are ascites in the abdomen
The Basics of Ascites. Ascites is excess fluid in the space between the membranes lining the abdomen and abdominal organs (the peritoneal cavity). This is typically caused by liver disease. Disorders that may be associated with ascites include: 1  cirrhosis. 2  hepatitis. 3  portal vein thrombosis (clots in the veins of the liver). 4  constrictive pericarditis. 5  congestive heart ....