Ascites and Renal Dysfunction in Liver Disease: A Comprehensive Guide to Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Evidence-Based Management

Understand the Science and Clinical Management of Ascites and Renal Dysfunction in Advanced Liver Disease

Ascites and Renal Dysfunction in Liver Disease: A Comprehensive Guide to Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Evidence-Based Management provides a practical, evidence-based review of two of the most significant complications of chronic liver disease. Combining fundamental science with clinical application, this book explains the mechanisms underlying ascites, portal hypertension, circulatory dysfunction, and hepatorenal syndrome while presenting current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for modern clinical practice.

Beginning with the physiology of sodium homeostasis, renal circulation, hepatic circulation, gastrointestinal and splanchnic hemodynamics, and neurohormonal regulation, the book demonstrates how progressive liver disease disrupts circulatory balance, leading to sodium retention, fluid accumulation, and renal impairment. Complex concepts are presented in a logical, clinically relevant format that supports informed patient care.

Comprehensive chapters examine the roles of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), the sympathetic nervous system, atrial natriuretic peptide, nitric oxide, endothelin, carbon monoxide, systemic circulatory dysfunction, hepatic microcirculation, splanchnic vasodilation, and cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. The text also explores the pathogenesis of sodium retention, experimental models of ascites, and the mechanisms of hepatorenal syndrome.

Clinical chapters provide a practical approach to the diagnosis and management of ascites and renal dysfunction, including diagnostic and therapeutic paracentesis, albumin therapy, diuretic treatment, refractory ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, vasoconstrictor therapy, and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). Patient selection, contraindications, expected outcomes, complications, and long-term management are discussed in the context of current clinical practice.

Reflecting contemporary evidence and internationally recognized clinical practice guidelines, this book serves as both a learning resource and a practical reference for healthcare professionals caring for patients with advanced liver disease.

Inside this book:

• Physiology of sodium homeostasis and renal function
• Portal hypertension and systemic circulatory dysfunction
• Neurohormonal regulation in cirrhosis
• Pathophysiology of ascites and hepatorenal syndrome
• Diagnostic evaluation of ascites and renal dysfunction
• Evidence-based medical management
• Therapeutic paracentesis and albumin replacement
• TIPS: indications, patient selection, and outcomes
• Current approaches to refractory ascites and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
• Prognostic assessment and long-term management

Ideal for: Hepatologists, gastroenterologists, nephrologists, internists, critical care physicians, transplant specialists, residents, fellows, medical students, nurses, and allied healthcare professionals seeking a current, clinically relevant resource on the management of ascites and renal dysfunction in liver disease.