What is the medical term for the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen?

The medical term for the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen is ascites. This condition is typically associated with liver disease, heart failure, or malignancies, where excess fluid gathers in the peritoneal cavity. Ascites often leads to abdominal distension and can cause discomfort and complications. The management of ascites may involve dietary changes, medications, or procedures to remove excess fluid.

Other terms like edema refer to fluid accumulation in tissues or spaces elsewhere in the body, hydrocele is specifically a fluid-filled sac around the testicle, and hernia pertains to the protrusion of an organ through the wall of the cavity that contains it, none of which accurately describe the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal area. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for identifying and addressing various medical conditions effectively.