Effusions - Ascites

EFFUSIONS - ASCITES
  • Pure transudate:  There is a decrease in oncotic pressure. Hypoalbuminemia - < 0.8g/dl (Observed in Hepatic insufficiency, Glomerular diseases, GI loss, chronic starvation. Sustained portal hypertension due to chronic hepatic diseases.
  • Modified transudate: There is an increase in hydrostatic pressure. Observed in acute portal hypertension due to obstruction, Hepatic disease , right heart failure, abdominal neoplasia.
  • Nonseptic exudate: It is indicative of inflammation. Nondegenerate neutrophils. Uroabdomen, biliary tract rupture, FIP, neoplasia, Pancreatitis, Circulatory compromise.
  • Septic exudate: It is indicative of septic inflammation. Degenerate neutrophils and bacteria will be present. Bowel rupture or ruptured abscess.
  • Bilious effusion: Brown/green exudate.
  • Chylous effusion: Milky white/pink opaque with variable cellularity (lymphs/neuts). High triglycerides (fluid>sera by 2-3:1), cholesterol present is less than that in serum
Last modified: Tuesday, 5 June 2012, 12:47 PM