A DISTENDED ABDOMEN, bulging flanks, and a protruding, displaced umbilicus are signs of ascites, free fluid in the peritoneal cavity. Cirrhosis, heart failure, renal failure, portal hypertension, chronic hepatitis, and cancer are common causes. Shifting dullness and a fluid wave indicate ascites.

How would you assess for ascites?

A DISTENDED ABDOMEN, bulging flanks, and a protruding, displaced umbilicus are signs of ascites, free fluid in the peritoneal cavity. Cirrhosis, heart failure, renal failure, portal hypertension, chronic hepatitis, and cancer are common causes. Shifting dullness and a fluid wave indicate ascites.

How does ascites feel on palpation?

Palpation of the abdomen in the patient with ascites will often demonstrate a doughy, almost fluctuant sensation. In advanced cases the abdominal wall will be tense due to distention from the contained fluid. Gas-filled intestines will float to the top of the fluid-filled abdomen.