Liver Cirrhosis with Ascites and Rectal Bleeding – How Serious Is It?

Liver cirrhosis accompanied by ascites and rectal bleeding is a severe medical condition, often indicating that the disease has progressed to the end-stage, also known as decompensated cirrhosis. These symptoms typically signal the presence of serious complications such as gastrointestinal bleeding or portal hypertension.

Ascites, which is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, must be evaluated further to determine its cause. It could be due to spontaneous bacterial peritonitis or malignant ascites, both of which require immediate medical attention and specialized treatment approaches.

When gastrointestinal bleeding is present, it's crucial to perform an endoscopic examination to identify the underlying cause. This bleeding may stem from peptic ulcers or, more dangerously, from ruptured esophageal and gastric varices. Ruptured varices are particularly life-threatening, as they can lead to massive blood loss and carry a high mortality rate. Prompt intervention is essential in managing this complication effectively.

In the case of bleeding associated with cirrhotic ascites, medical management usually includes temporary fasting, acid suppression therapy, medications to reduce portal pressure, diuretics, and intermittent albumin infusions. Close monitoring of the patient's condition is vital during this period to prevent further deterioration and support recovery.