Abdominal Distension: Clinical Meaning

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women and often presents late due to vague symptoms. It originates in the ovaries and frequently spreads to the peritoneum before diagnosis.

Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)

Hepatocellular carcinoma typically develops in the setting of chronic liver disease or cirrhosis due to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or alcohol. It is a leading cause of cancer death globally.

Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions (abdominal obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides) that together significantly increase cardiovascular and diabetes risk. Lifestyle modification is the cornerstone of management.

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease is the most common hereditary kidney disorder, causing progressive enlargement of fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys, hypertension, and eventual kidney failure. Tolvaptan slows kidney growth.

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign smooth muscle tumors of the uterus, causing heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, and urinary symptoms. They affect up to 70% of women by age 50; treatment ranges from watchful waiting to medication or surgical removal.

Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis occurs when endometrial tissue grows within the muscular wall of the uterus, causing heavy, painful periods and an enlarged uterus. It often coexists with endometriosis; hormonal therapy and hysterectomy are treatment options.