____, the presence of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, occurs because liver cirrhosis creates blood backup into the portal artery (portal hypertension) and subsequently sequesters blood in the abdomen.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity and is a common complication of liver cirrhosis. Portal hypertension caused by cirrhosis leads to increased pressure in the veins that carry blood from the organs of the digestive system to the liver, leading to sequestration of blood in the abdomen and subsequent fluid accumulation. Jaundice (A) is a yellowing of the skin and eyes due to accumulation of bilirubin, which occurs in liver disease but is not necessarily associated with ascites. Hypoxia (B) is a general term for lack of oxygen, which could be a result of several causes, but is not specifically related to liver cirrhosis or ascites. Icterus (D) is another term for jaundice and is not a specific complication of liver cirrhosis or ascites.

____, the Presence of Fluid in the Peritoneal Cavity, Occurs