Gastroenterology & Hepatology — Flashcards

Flashcard 351: What is the management for ascites? _____ Spironolactone monotherapy

Answer: Dietary sodium restriction

Flashcard 352: _____ is the excessive accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity

Answer: Ascites

Flashcard 353: What is the interim management of acute cholecystitis in unstable or clinically deteriorating patients? _____

Answer: Gallbladder draining procedures e.g. percutaneous cholecystostomy

Flashcard 354: The most common organism implicated in acute cholangitis is _____

Answer: Escherichia coli

Flashcard 355: The most common cause of ascites is _____ ~80%

Answer: cirrhosis (portal hypertension)

Flashcard 356: What is the first-line investigation for symptomatic gallstones? _____ Abdominal ultrasound

Answer: LFTs

Flashcard 357: _____ can present with hypotension & mental status changes in Reynold's pentad

Answer: Acute cholangitis

Flashcard 358: What is the first-line investigation for acute cholecystitis? _____

Answer: RUQ ultrasound!

Flashcard 359: What is the definitive management for ascites caused by cirrhosis? _____

Answer: Liver transplantation

Extra: Management ladder for cirrhotic ascites: 1. Sodium restriction & Diuretics (Spironolactone + Furosemide) 2. Large Volume Paracentesis (LVP) 3. TIPS (for refractory cases) 4. Liver Transplant (Definitive)

Flashcard 360: Investigation of choice for asymptomatic gallstones: _____

Answer: Ultrasonography (USG)

Extra: Asymptomatic gallstones (incidental gallstones) usually require no treatment (Expectant management/Observation). Prophylactic cholecystectomy is only indicated in specific cases (e.g., porcelain gallbladder, stones >3cm, calcified/porcelain gallbladder, or sickle cell anemia).