A case of refractory ascites

Abstract

We describe a case of patient with alcoholic cirrhosis and severe functional hepatic impairment (Child C), developing in the last months renal impairment too and ingravescent, refractory ascites, despite high-dose diuretics. The patient was treated with intravenous albumin and, at last, weekly paracentesis. In this report we evaluate alternative therapeutic options (Transjugular Inrtahepatic Protosystemic Shunt, Orthotopic Liver Transplantation) when frequent paracentesis are needed.

Keywords

• Hepatic cirrhosis
• Refractory ascites
• Hepatorenal syndrome
• Paracentesis
• Albumin