What is the medical term for edematous fluid in the abdominal cavity?

The medical term for edematous fluid in the abdominal cavity is ascites. This condition occurs when there is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, often resulting from various medical conditions, such as liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or certain cancers. Ascites can lead to abdominal swelling and discomfort, and it is often assessed through physical examination and imaging methods.

The other terms provided refer to fluid accumulations in different areas of the body: hydrothorax refers to fluid in the pleural cavity surrounding the lungs, hemothorax indicates the presence of blood in the pleural cavity, and pericardial effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the pericardial sac surrounding the heart. Each of these conditions is distinct, emphasizing the importance of identifying the specific location and type of fluid accumulation when diagnosing medical issues.