Dense ascites: CT manifestations and clinical implications.

Ascites is a not infrequent finding on CT. Causes of ascites include congestive heart failure, hypoalbuminemia, cirrhosis, inflammation, and neoplasm. In most cases the attenuation of ascites is that of clear fluid, measuring around 0 HU. Rarely, however, a considerably higher density of ascites is seen. This finding may be a challenge for the radiologist, particularly since some of the conditions associated with it are of major clinical importance requiring prompt intervention.