Nephrogenic ascites - Still an intractable problem?

Nephrogenic ascites or ascites associated with renal failure is seen in end-stage renal disease in-patients on hemodialysis but has been described occasionally in earlier stages of renal failure. The cause can be multifactorial and a combination of inadequate dialysis and ultrafiltration, poor nutrition and increased peritoneal membrane permeability in uremia. Generally, the onset of nephrogenic ascites is insidious and portends a grim long-term prognosis. We describe herein three patients who presented with refractory ascites of nephrogenic origin and review this entity.