Simultaneous right-sided volume overload and left-sided hypovolemia in a man with massive ascites and a hydrothorax.

Abstract

The medical problems presented by an 83-yr-old man with hepatic amyloidosis complicated by massive ascites and a right hydrothorax are described. As a result of right atrial compression limiting right heart filling, the patient simultaneously experienced left-sided hypovolemia with renal and hepatic ischemia while manifesting signs of right-sided congestive failure. Only with a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt procedure, which eliminated the right atrial compression with resolution of the hydrothorax and ascites, was it possible to improve the other medical condition of this man.