A 50-year-old man known to be an alcoholic presented with progressive abdominal distention and yellow discoloration of the sclera. The patient gave a history of vague abdominal pai... A 50-year-old man known to be an alcoholic presented with progressive abdominal distention and yellow discoloration of the sclera. The patient gave a history of vague abdominal pain mainly at the epigastrium. Fluid thrill was found upon examination, suggestive of ascites. Diagnostic paracentesis was done (see lab results). Which of the following is the most likely cause of his ascites? A. Nephrotic syndrome B. Acute pancreatitis C. Portal hypertension D. Congestive heart failure
Understand the Problem
The question describes a clinical scenario involving a 50-year-old alcoholic man with symptoms suggestive of ascites and asks for the most likely cause of his ascites from a list of medical conditions.
Answer
Portal hypertension
The most likely cause of his ascites is Portal hypertension.
Answer for screen readers
The most likely cause of his ascites is Portal hypertension.
More Information
Portal hypertension is commonly associated with liver cirrhosis due to chronic alcohol use, leading to ascites. It causes increased pressure in the portal venous system, resulting in fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
Tips
A common mistake is overlooking the link between chronic alcohol use and liver disease. Always consider liver cirrhosis in patients with such a history presenting with ascites.
Sources
- Ascites - Gastrointestinal - Medbullets - step2.medbullets.com
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