The principles of management of patients with liver cirrhosis complicated by ascites

This review deals with modern principles of management of patients with liver cirrhosis complicated by ascites depending on its clinical manifestations. The search strategy included the use of the PubMed database, the Google Scholar system, Cochrane systematic reviews, and reference lists of individual articles that cover relevant publications for 1986-2016 and match the following key words: liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension, ascites, pathogenesis, diagnostics, treatment. Inclusion criteria were confined to uncomplicated or refractory ascites in patients with liver cirrhosis. The analysis of literature data revealed poor prognosis of this condition and high mortality rate despite progress in its management. A major prerequisite for the successful treatment is stratification of risks of unfavourable outcome and the choice of adequate personalized therapy. The pathogenetically sound prescription of pharmacotherapy and further optimization of minimally invasive methods make it possible to improve the quality of life and survivorship of the patients.