Question

Based on the dual blood supply in the liver, explain the fluid retention in the peritoneal cavity in two different pathophysiological conditions.

Answer 1

In Ascites there occurs abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.This occurs due to disruption in the pressure forces that exists between intravascular and extravascular fluid spaces, which in turn allows the extravascular fluid to accumulate in the anterior peritoneal cavity.the lymphatic fluid leaks across hepatic sinusoidal endothelium because of high hepatic sinusoidal pressure

In Cirrhosis, there occurs slow flow of blood through the liver which is slower than normal blood blow.This increases the  pressure in the vein that functions to bring blood to the liver from intestines as well as spleen.The increased pressure in the portal vein leads to accumulation of  fluid in the legs ,the condition known as edema.