Ascites is the pathological accumulation of free fluid in the peritoneal cavity. Normally there is no free fluid in the peritoneal cavity, although a very small quantity of fluid (less than 20cc or 1 ounce) may be present in a woman depending on the phase of her menstrual cycle. Etiologies of ascites are manifold, and include viscus perforation as well as liver disease, infection, malignancy, heart failure, dialysis, and hypoproteinemia.
Ascites medical expert witness specialties include gastroenterology, hepatology, primary care, critical care medicine, general surgery, cardiology, obstetrics-gynecology, oncology, and surgical oncology.
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