- Ascitic fluid testing is done by paracentesis to try to find the cause of the ascites. A needle is stuck into the skin of the abdomen to draw out some of the ascitic fluid.
- An ultrasound of the abdomen helps the healthcare provider to see the internal organs and exactly where the ascitic fluid is building up. Can be a good precursor to paracentesis.
- Urine and blood tests help to see how well the kidneys and liver are working.
- A CT scan can help to view the organs and blood vessels in your abdomen to see where the fluid is coming from.
- A physical examination can also be done by the doctor to help determine the amount of swelling.
- The fluid that is collected from the needle in paracentesis is tested and checked for its protein level, albumin, and red and white cell counts.
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| Paracentesis: http://medvin2u.net/ascites/ |
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| CT Scan: http://www.meddean.luc.edu/lumen/MedEd/Radio/curriculum/Surgery/Ascites.htm |
- Serum-Ascites Albumin Gradient (SAAG)- helps more to determine the cause of the ascites. Portal hypertension is assumed to be the cause if there is a high gradient greater than 1.1 g/dL. If the gradient is less than 1.1 g/dL, it is assumed that the cause does not have to do with portal hypertension.
References:
http://www.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/ascites/overview.html
http://www.drugs.com/cg/ascites.html
http://medvin2u.net/ascites/
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