In a case of end-stage liver disease, which of the following findings would not be present?

In end-stage liver disease, liver function is severely compromised, leading to a variety of complications and characteristic findings. Biliary dilatation, which refers to an expansion of the bile ducts, is not typically associated with end-stage liver disease in the absence of an obstructive process.

Ascites is commonly present due to portal hypertension and decreased albumin production, leading to fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity. A small atrophied liver is also a prevalent finding, as chronic liver disease leads to fibrosis and ultimately shrinkage of the liver size. Portal hypertension is a direct consequence of scarring and impedance of blood flow through the liver, resulting in increased pressure in the portal venous system.

Biliary dilatation specifically indicates the presence of a blockage in the biliary tree, such as from a tumor or stones, which is not a direct result of end-stage liver disease itself. Therefore, it tends not to be a finding in cases purely characterized by hepatic decompensation due to cirrhosis and the complications arising from it.