Abdominal distention
Background
- Defined as: diffuse swelling or enlargement of the abdomen.
- It can also apply to the sensation of elevated abdominal pressure and volume.
Clinical Features
Ascites secondary to cirrhosis.
- Diffuse swelling or enlargement of the abdomen (or the sensation of such)
Differential Diagnosis
Abdominal distention
- Obesity
- Intestinal obstruction
- Pregnancy
- Ascites
- Cirrhosis
- Malignancy
- Heart failure
- Tuberculosis
- Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
- Peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis
- Distended bladder / Acute urinary retention
- Constipation / fecal impaction
- Large tumor(s) (e.g. ovarian, lymphoma)
- Organomegaly
Evaluation
- May be obvious on physical exam (e.g. obesity)
- Consider ultrasound as a first test (e.g. obesity vs. ascites)
- If unsure, consider CT abdomen
Management
- Depends on underlying etiology.
Disposition
- Depends on underlying etiology.
References
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