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ascites (ә-si´tēz) abnormal accumulation of serous fluid (edema) within the peritoneal cavity. It may be associated with any of numerous disorders, including neoplastic and inflammatory disorders of the peritoneum that produce increased permeability of the peritoneal capillaries; severe hypoalbuminemia from any cause; portal hypertension associated with cirrhosis, advanced congestive heart failure, and constrictive pericarditis; and hyperaldosteronism with increased retention of sodium and water.
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