Hepatic Hydrothorax

Your Path

  • Hepatic hydrothorax

Etiology

  • Development of effusion in setting of cirrhosis
  • Related to passage of ascites across small holes in diaphragm
  • Right side predominant

Risk Factors

  • Advanced liver disease with portal htn

Symptoms

  • SOB, DOE
  • Abdominal fullness

Physical Exam Findings

  • Ascites
  • Jaundice
  • Decreased breath sounds on affected side, dullness to percussion (R>>L)
  • Effusion often large sized
  • Lower extremity edema
  • Muscle wasting and other findings advanced liver diseae

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