Which type of ascites is characterized by internal echoes and is typically associated with infection or malignancy?

Exudative ascites is characterized by the presence of internal echoes due to higher protein content and cellular debris. This type of fluid often results from pathological conditions such as infection, malignancy, or inflammatory diseases.

In cases of exudative ascites, the fluid typically has a high white blood cell count, with an increased proportion of lymphocytes or neutrophils, indicating that the ascites is related to an underlying process such as cancer or infection. This can lead to an echogenic appearance on ultrasound, which is a crucial diagnostic feature.

The presence of internal echoes helps differentiate exudative ascites from other types such as transudative ascites, which usually appear more anechoic (clear) due to lower protein levels and fewer cells. Malignant ascites can be considered a specific subset of exudative ascites resulting from cancer, and although it also presents with internal echoes, the broader category of exudative ascites encompasses various conditions, not just malignancy. Simple ascites typically refers to clear fluid with no echoes, thus further differentiating it from exudative ascites.

Understanding these distinctions is key for proper diagnosis and management of abdominal conditions related to fluid accumulation.