Ascites

Term: AscitesDefinition: The accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, often associated with advanced liver disease or certain cancers, including those linked to asbestos exposure.Phonetic Pronunciation: (a-SYE-teez)Origin: The term "ascites" originates from the Greek word "askos," meaning "sack" or "bag," reflecting the condition's characteristic of fluid-filled abdominal cavity. Historically, it has been recognized since ancient times and documented in early medical texts.Significance in Asbestos Context: Ascites can be a symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Its presence may indicate advanced disease and is critical for diagnosis and monitoring the progression of asbestos-related conditions.Example Sentence: The patient's diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma was confirmed after the detection of ascites during a routine medical examination.Related Terms: Peritoneal Mesothelioma, Abdominal Swelling, Fluid Retention, Edema, CirrhosisNotes: - Ascites is not exclusive to asbestos-related diseases but can be a significant indicator in cases of peritoneal mesothelioma. - The presence of ascites may require interventions like paracentesis to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.