The serum–ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) is the difference between the concurrently obtained serum albumin concentration and the albumin concentration of the ascitic fluid obtained during paracentesis.
Pathology
A difference ≥1.1 grams/deciliter (g/dL) indicates portal hypertension as the likely etiology, whereas a gradient which is <1.1 g/dL implies an etiology that causes increased vascular permeability in the portal system.
Differential diagnosis
A (partial) differential diagnosis of potential etiology, based on the SAAG, is as follows 2:
- serum-ascites albumin gradient ≥1.1 g/dL
-
serum-ascites albumin gradient <1.1 g/dL
- ascites not due to portal hypertension
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