Mild Pelvic Ascites: Implications and Follow-Up Care

Mild pelvic ascites

Recently, I underwent a computed tomography (CT) scan, and the report is as follows:
Pre- and post-enhanced abdominal and pelvic CT axial images and coronal, sagittal reconstruction:
- No radiopaque nodules nor abnormal dilatation of the bilateral urinary collecting system.

- Collapsed urinary bladder.

- Mild ascites in the pelvis.

- Post cholecystectomy and surgical clips retention.

- Unremarkable liver, both kidneys, pancreas, bilateral adrenal glands, spleen, bowel loops, and visible lower lung fields.

- No abnormal enlargement of the intra-abdominal lymph nodes.

Impression:
1) No radiopaque urolithiasis nor obstructive uropathy in this study.
Suggest clinical correlation and follow-up.

2) Mild ascites.

3) Post cholecystectomy.
I would like to ask:
1.
Will having a CT scan before menstruation affect the assessment of mild ascites in the pelvis?
2.
Which specialty should I consult regarding mild ascites in the pelvis? Since the report indicates that the liver, kidneys, and other organs did not show any significant findings, should I consider potential issues with the colon or the uterus and ovaries? Thank you for your response.

Lky, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/11

Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology

Hello, this text literally means mild ascites in the pelvic cavity.
There are many causes of ascites, including low serum albumin, liver, heart, and kidney diseases, as well as intra-abdominal inflammation, infection, or tumors, all of which can lead to ascites.
Computed tomography (CT) imaging is one of the auxiliary reference items for clinical diagnosis; however, the final diagnosis must be made by a clinical specialist based on symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and laboratory test results for a comprehensive evaluation.
It is recommended to seek evaluation by a specialist in the relevant field based on clinical symptoms, or to visit an obstetrics and gynecology or family medicine outpatient clinic for assessment by a physician.
Please refer to the above, and wish you peace and health.

Reply Date: 2023/08/11

More Info

Mild pelvic ascites refers to the accumulation of a small amount of fluid in the pelvic cavity. This condition can be identified through imaging studies such as a CT scan, as noted in your report. Understanding the implications of mild ascites and the appropriate follow-up care is crucial for managing any underlying conditions that may be contributing to this finding.

1. Impact of Menstrual Cycle on CT Findings: Regarding your first question, the timing of your CT scan in relation to your menstrual cycle can indeed influence the interpretation of pelvic findings. During the menstrual cycle, particularly just before menstruation, hormonal changes can lead to fluid accumulation in the pelvic area due to increased vascular permeability and potential ovulation-related fluid. However, while mild ascites can be influenced by the menstrual cycle, it is essential to correlate these findings with clinical symptoms and other diagnostic information. If the ascites is mild and there are no other concerning symptoms, it may not be directly related to your menstrual cycle.

2. Follow-Up Care: For your second question, follow-up care for mild pelvic ascites typically involves consulting with a gynecologist, especially if there are concerns regarding the reproductive organs such as the ovaries or uterus. Given that the CT report indicates no abnormalities in the liver, kidneys, and other organs, it is prudent to consider gynecological evaluations to rule out conditions such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or other pelvic pathologies that could lead to fluid accumulation.
In addition to gynecological evaluation, if there are any gastrointestinal symptoms or concerns, a consultation with a gastroenterologist may also be warranted. They can assess for any potential issues related to the intestines or other abdominal organs that could contribute to ascites.

Additional Considerations: It is also important to monitor for any symptoms that may arise, such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or unusual menstrual symptoms. If you experience significant discomfort or changes in your health status, seeking immediate medical attention is advisable.

In summary, while mild pelvic ascites can be a benign finding, it is essential to follow up with the appropriate specialists to ensure that any underlying conditions are identified and managed. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider will help in addressing any concerns that may arise and ensure optimal health outcomes.

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