Ascites
Also known as: Bauchwassersucht · Abdominal effusion · Peritoneal effusion · Aszites · Flüssigkeitsansammlung im Bauchraum
Overview
What it is
Ascites is the abnormal accumulation of free fluid within the abdominal cavity, which impacts the circulatory and digestive systems. Rather than a disease itself, it is a severe symptom of an underlying condition, such as heart, liver, or kidney dysfunction. An abdominal ultrasound is the gold standard method used by veterinarians to confirm the presence of this fluid.
How it presents
Owners usually notice a visibly swollen, distended, or pear-shaped abdomen, often accompanied by lethargy and breathing difficulties. This symptom can appear at any age, depending on when the primary underlying disease develops.
Treatment
While the fluid can be drained and managed with medications, long-term or lifelong therapy is usually required to treat the underlying cause. The associated veterinary care and diagnostic tests typically cost between €1,000 and €5,000.
How it's tested
Abdominalsonographie(Ultraschall)
Primary testUltrasoundDie Diagnose von Eierstockzysten erfolgt mittels einer Ultraschalluntersuchung (Sonographie) des Abdomens, bei der die flüssigkeitsgefüllten Strukturen an den Ovarien dargestellt werden.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ascites?
Ascites is the abnormal accumulation of free fluid within the abdominal cavity, which impacts the circulatory and digestive systems. Rather than a disease itself, it is a severe symptom of an underlying condition, such as heart, liver, or kidney dysfunction. An abdominal ultrasound is the gold standard method used by veterinarians to confirm the presence of this fluid.
How is Ascites tested?
Tests currently in our database: Abdominalsonographie.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.