Diagnosing ascites in the context of toxicology involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Key diagnostic steps include:
Clinical Evaluation: Physicians assess the patient's medical history, including potential toxin exposure, and perform a physical examination to detect signs of ascites such as abdominal distension and shifting dullness. Abdominal Ultrasound: This imaging technique helps visualize fluid accumulation in the peritoneal cavity and can aid in identifying potential underlying causes like liver or kidney damage. Paracentesis: This procedure involves extracting a sample of the ascitic fluid for laboratory analysis. It helps determine the fluid's nature, such as its protein content and presence of cells, which can provide insight into the underlying cause. Blood Tests: These tests evaluate liver and kidney function, looking for markers of damage that might suggest toxic exposure.
