What is ascites?

Also known as: chylous ascites, fluid buildup.

When excess fluid accumulates in the abdomen, specifically in the area between the abdominal lining and the organs in the abdomen, this is known as ascites. When the fluid buildup contains chyle (a milky-type fluid that contains lymphatic fluid and fat), this form of ascites is known as chylous ascites. It can occur for several reasons and lead to a number of complications.
 

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Reviewed by: John M. Peters, DO

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM