Refractory ascites precipitated by obstructive uropathy.

A case is presented where a patient's cirrhotic ascites was refractory to conventional treatment and where the usual factors which precipitate refractory ascites were excluded. We believe that this patient's apparently refractory ascites was precipitated by an obstructive uropathy, as evidenced by dramatic diuresis, natriuresis, and return to diuretic sensitivity following relief of the obstruction.