Serum ascites albumin gradient

SAAG defines the albumin content of the ascites in relation to the albumin content of the blood (Serum-Ascites-Albumin-Gradient = SAAG) SAAG can be helpful in differentiating between portal-hypertensive and non-portal-hypertensive ascites genesis (Younas M et al. 2012). Both values (albumin in blood and ascites) should be determined on the same day of examination.

SAAG > 1.1 g/dl: portal hypertension likely.

SAAG > 2.5 g/dl: ascites formation in the context of heart failure or early Budd-Chiari syndrome.

SAAG < 1.1 g/dl portal hypertension less likely; indicates pancreatitis, peritoneal carcinomatosis, a bile leak, tuberculosis or nephrotic syndrome.

1. Younas M det al (2012) Role of serum-ascites albumin gradient in differential diagnosis of ascites. J Ayub Med Coll Abbottabad 24:97-99.