<Tr> <Th> Frequency </Th> <Td>> 50% of people (with cirrhosis) </Td> </Tr> <P> Ascites is the abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen . Technically, it is more than 25 mL of fluid in the peritoneal cavity . Symptoms may include increased abdominal size, increased weight, abdominal discomfort, and shortness of breath . Complications can include spontaneous bacterial peritonitis . </P> <P> In the developed world, the most common cause is liver cirrhosis . Other causes include cancer, heart failure, tuberculosis, pancreatitis, and blockage of the hepatic vein . In cirrhosis, the underlying mechanism involves high blood pressure in the portal system and dysfunction of blood vessels . Diagnosis is typically based on a examination together with ultrasound or a CT scan . Testing the fluid can help in determining the underlying cause . </P> <P> Treatment often involves a low salt diet, medication such as diuretics, and draining the fluid . A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) may be placed but is associated with complications . Effects to treat the underlying cause, such as by a liver transplant may be considered . Of those with cirrhosis, more than half develop ascites in the ten years following diagnosis . Of those in this group who develop ascites, half will die within three years . The term is from the Greek askítes meaning "baglike". </P>

Ascites is one of the late features of