Ascites refers to fluid in which body area?

• A. Abdomen
• B. Pleural space
• C. Pericardial space
• D. Brain ventricle

Answer: (A)

Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, i.e., the abdomen. It often results from conditions like advanced liver disease with portal hypertension or hypoalbuminemia, but can also occur with heart, kidney, or cancer-related problems. This fluid buildup in the abdominal space is distinct from fluids in other body compartments: fluid around the lungs is a pleural effusion, fluid around the heart is a pericardial effusion, and fluid in the brain’s ventricles is hydrocephalus. In terms of respiratory impact, ascites can worsen breathing by restricting diaphragmatic movement, whereas pleural effusions more directly limit lung expansion. Therefore, ascites refers to fluid in the abdomen.