A 58-year-old man with known cirrhosis has progressive abdominal distension. Examination shows shifting dullness without fever or abdominal pain.

Question

A 58-year-old man with known cirrhosis has progressive abdominal distension. Examination shows shifting dullness without fever or abdominal pain. Sodium is 134 mEq/L and creatinine is normal. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

Accepted Answer

Start sodium restriction plus spironolactone and furosemide

Answer

Prescribe acetazolamide

Answer

Start high-protein avoidance as sole treatment

Answer

Start broad chemotherapy

Answer

Perform splenectomy

Cirrhotic ascites — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

A 58-year-old man with known cirrhosis has progressive abdominal distension. Examination shows shifting dullness without fever or abdominal pain. Sodium is 134 mEq/L and creatinine is normal. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?