gastroenterology hepatology
SAAG (Serum-Ascites Albumin Gradient)
Differentiates portal hypertension from non-portal hypertension causes of ascites. SAAG >=11 g/L suggests portal hypertension.
Score interpretation
SAAG >=11 g/L — Portal hypertension
→ Causes: cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis, cardiac ascites, BCS. Start diuretics; low-salt diet
SAAG <11 g/L — Non-portal hypertension
→ Causes: malignancy, peritoneal TB, pancreatitis, nephrotic syndrome. Further workup: cytology, culture, amylase
Interpretation bands for the SAAG. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Drugs
- Propranolol (Portal Hypertension) · Antihypertensive
- Carvedilol (Portal Hypertension) · Non-Selective Beta-Blocker with Alpha₁-Blocking Activity
- Selexipag · Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
- Macitentan · Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
- Albumin solution · Plasma derivative / colloid
- Spironolactone (Ascites / Cirrhosis) · Aldosterone Antagonist / Potassium-Sparing Diuretic
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.