Veterinary Clinical Medicine-I (General and Systemic)

ASCITES

• The escape of fluid, either transudate or exudate, into the abdominal cavity between the parietal and visceral peritoneum
• Ascites can be caused by the following:
  • CHF and associated interference in venous return
  • Depletion of plasma proteins —protein-losing nephropathy or enteropathy
  • Obstruction of the vena cava or portal vein, or lymphatic drainage due to neoplastic occlusion
  • Overt neoplastic effusion
  • Peritonitis—infective or inflammatory
  • Electrolyte imbalance, especially hypernatremia
  • Liver cirrhosis