Mechanism of ascites in cirrhosis

A 58-year-old man with a history of long-standing alcoholic cirrhosis presents to the clinic with progressive abdominal distension and lower extremity swelling over the past 3 months. Physical examination reveals shifting dullness in the abdomen and pitting edema of both ankles. Laboratory studies show serum albumin of 2.0 g/dL (normal 3.5–5.0 g/dL) and normal renal function. Which of the following changes in Starling forces across the capillary wall is most responsible for his ascites and peripheral edema?

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Mechanism of ascites in cirrhosis | QWorld.Ai