Which condition is a consequence of portal hypertension that leads to fluid accumulation in the abdomen?

Which condition is a consequence of portal hypertension that leads to fluid accumulation in the abdomen?

• A. Jaundice
• B. Ascites
• C. Esophageal varices
• D. Hepatomegaly

Answer: (B)

Portal hypertension raises pressure in the portal venous system, causing fluid to leak from the liver’s sinusoids into the peritoneal cavity. The liver’s impaired function also lowers albumin production, reducing plasma oncotic pressure and allowing even more fluid to accumulate in the abdomen. In addition, the body responds to perceived low circulating volume by activating the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, promoting sodium and water retention, which further increases ascites. So the abdominal fluid buildup is a direct consequence of portal hypertension through these combined mechanisms. Jaundice, esophageal varices, and hepatomegaly are also related to portal hypertension, but they do not describe the fluid accumulation in the abdomen.

Portal hypertension raises pressure in the portal venous system, causing fluid to leak from the liver’s sinusoids into the peritoneal cavity. The liver’s impaired function also lowers albumin production, reducing plasma oncotic pressure and allowing even more fluid to accumulate in the abdomen. In addition, the body responds to perceived low circulating volume by activating the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, promoting sodium and water retention, which further increases ascites. So the abdominal fluid buildup is a direct consequence of portal hypertension through these combined mechanisms. Jaundice, esophageal varices, and hepatomegaly are also related to portal hypertension, but they do not describe the fluid accumulation in the abdomen.