What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Congenital Chylous Ascites

What is Chylous Ascites? (Definition/Background Information)

• Chylous Ascites is a rare form of ascites caused by accumulation of lymph in the peritoneal cavity, usually due to intra-abdominal malignancy, liver cirrhosis or abdominal surgery complications
• It presents with painless but progressive abdominal distension, dyspnea and weight gain

(Source: Chylous Ascites; Orphanet, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Paris.)

Who gets Chylous Ascites? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Chylous Ascites is a rare disorder that typically affects adults or children. It may be also present at birth in some cases 
• Both males and females may be affected
• Worldwide, individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Chylous Ascites? (Predisposing Factors)

The following risk factors have been identified for Chylous Ascites:

• Cancers of the abdomen
• Conditions that lead to liver scarring
• Complications from surgery involving the abdomen

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Chylous Ascites? (Etiology)

• Chylous Ascites is a rare form of ascites caused by accumulation of lymph in the peritoneal cavity, usually due to intra-abdominal malignancy, liver cirrhosis or abdominal surgery complications

(Source: Chylous Ascites; Orphanet, National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Paris.)

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Chylous Ascites?

The signs and symptoms of Chylous Ascites may include:

• Very frequently present symptoms in 80-99% of the cases:
  • Chylous Ascites
  • Lymphedema
• Occasionally present symptoms in 5-29% of the cases:
  • Abnormality of the intestine
  • Glaucoma
  • Neoplasm
  • Pancreatitis

(Source: Chylous Ascites; Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS), USA.)

How is Chylous Ascites Diagnosed?

Chylous Ascites is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Complete physical examination
• Thorough medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• Laboratory tests
• Imaging studies
• Biopsy studies, if necessary

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Chylous Ascites?

The complications of Chylous Ascites may include:

• Liver dysfunction
• Complications from any underlying conditions

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Chylous Ascites Treated?

The treatment for Chylous Ascites usually includes managing the signs and symptoms, any complications that develop, and the underlying condition.

How can Chylous Ascites be Prevented?

• Chylous Ascites may not be preventable in some cases. In other cases, appropriately treating any abdominal malignancies and ensuring adequate care during abdominal surgeries, may help prevent the condition
• Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended

What is the Prognosis of Chylous Ascites? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Chylous Ascites is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications, if any
• Individuals with mild conditions have better prognosis than those with severe symptoms and complications
• Typically, the prognosis may be assessed on a case-by-case basis

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Chylous Ascites:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/