Does OASIS (Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide) help with ascites (accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity)?

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Last updated: March 3, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

OASIS (Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide) is not directly related to the management of ascites, and the current evidence does not support its use in treating ascites. Instead, the management of ascites involves a combination of dietary sodium restriction, diuretic therapy, and large-volume paracentesis (LVP) in patients with refractory ascites. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2021 in the journal Hepatology 1, provides guidance on the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, and hepatorenal syndrome. Key points from this study include:

  • Grading of ascites according to the amount of fluid accumulated in the abdominal cavity and classification according to response to treatment
  • Use of diuretic therapy, including spironolactone and furosemide, to manage ascites
  • Performance of LVP in patients with refractory ascites, with administration of albumin to prevent post-paracentesis circulatory dysfunction
  • Importance of monitoring patients with ascites for signs of complications, such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatorenal syndrome.

Some other relevant studies also support the use of LVP and diuretic therapy in managing ascites, including a study published in 2021 in the journal Gut 1 and a study published in 2010 in the Journal of Hepatology 1. However, the most recent and highest quality study, published in 2021 in the journal Hepatology 1, should be prioritized when making treatment decisions. In terms of specific treatment recommendations, patients with refractory ascites should be considered for LVP, with administration of albumin to prevent post-paracentesis circulatory dysfunction, as recommended in the 2021 Hepatology study 1. Additionally, diuretic therapy, including spironolactone and furosemide, should be used to manage ascites, with careful monitoring of patients for signs of complications, as recommended in the 2021 Hepatology study 1.

Overall, while OASIS is not directly related to the management of ascites, the current evidence supports the use of LVP, diuretic therapy, and careful monitoring to manage ascites and prevent complications. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2021 in the journal Hepatology 1, should be prioritized when making treatment decisions, and patients with refractory ascites should be considered for LVP and diuretic therapy, with careful monitoring for signs of complications.

From the FDA Drug Label

By competing with aldosterone for receptor sites, spironolactone provides effective therapy for the edema and ascites in those conditions. The answer to whether OASIS (Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide) helps with ascites is not directly addressed in the provided text. However, spironolactone is mentioned to be effective in treating ascites by competing with aldosterone for receptor sites.

  • Key points:
    • Spironolactone is used to treat ascites.
    • The mechanism involves competing with aldosterone for receptor sites.
    • No direct information is provided about OASIS helping with ascites. 2

From the Research

OASIS and Ascites Management

There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that OASIS (Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide) helps with ascites (accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity) 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.

Current Treatment Options for Ascites

Current treatment options for ascites include:

  • Dietary sodium restriction and diuretics, such as loop-acting diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and distal-acting diuretics (e.g., spironolactone) 3, 4, 5, 6
  • Large-volume paracentesis (LVP) with intravenous albumin infusion 3, 4, 5, 7
  • Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) 3, 4, 7
  • Peritoneovenous shunts 5
  • Vasoconstrictors, such as midodrine 7
  • Automated low flow pump systems, such as the Alfapump 7

Complications and Prognosis

Ascites is associated with a poor prognosis, with a 50% 2-year survival rate 3. Refractory ascites is particularly ominous, with a 50% mortality rate within 6 months of its development 3. Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is a common complication of ascites, with a mortality rate of approximately 20% 3.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Ascites.

Current treatment options in gastroenterology, 2001

Research

Management of ascites in cirrhosis.

Journal of gastroenterology and hepatology, 2012

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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