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What term describes fluids that build up in the abdominal cavity?

  1. Dehydration

  2. Ascites

  3. Lymphedema

  4. Edema

The correct answer is: Ascites

The term that describes fluids that build up in the abdominal cavity is ascites. Ascites specifically refers to an accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, which can result from various medical conditions such as liver cirrhosis, heart failure, or cancer. This condition can lead to abdominal swelling and discomfort due to the excess fluid. Dehydration refers to a lack of adequate fluid in the body, which is the opposite of fluid accumulation. Lymphedema involves the accumulation of lymph fluid, typically in the limbs, due to a blockage in the lymphatic system, and is not specific to the abdominal cavity. Edema is a broader term that describes swelling from excess fluid in the body's tissues but does not specifically refer to fluid in the abdominal cavity. Therefore, the specificity of ascites in the context of the abdominal cavity makes it the appropriate choice.