Serum/Ascites Albumin Gradient: Its Value as a Rational Approach to the Differential Diagnosis of Ascites

Abstract

The classification of ascites into transudate and exudate appears to be based on markers with low diagnostic accuracy. Differential diagnosis of ascites should be based on the serum/ascites albumin gradient, which is a reliable marker distinguishing ascites related to portal hypertension from all other causes of ascitic fluid collection, regardless of the presence of bacterial infection.