Distended

Distended is an adjective meaning stretched beyond the normal size or shape. In medical usage, it describes a hollow organ or body cavity that has enlarged due to the accumulation of contents or pressure, such as gas, fluid, or tissue expansion.

The term is most commonly applied to the abdomen, where distension refers to an increased abdominal girth and a sense of fullness or tightness caused by gas, fluid, organ enlargement, or masses. A distended bladder results from urinary retention and can cause lower abdominal fullness and discomfort.

Causes of distension are varied and include benign and serious conditions. Abdominal distension can arise from gas due to swallowed air or intestinal bacteria, constipation, gastroenteritis, or bowel obstruction. Fluid accumulation from ascites or related liver disease, tumors, and rapid weight gain can also cause distension. Non-gastrointestinal distension includes urinary retention with bladder distension, pregnancy-related enlargement, and vascular congestion in some diseases.

Diagnosis involves history, physical examination, and targeted imaging as needed. Findings may include increased abdominal girth, tympany on percussion, and a tense abdomen. Ultrasound, radiographs, or CT scans help identify causes such as obstruction, fluid accumulation, or mass lesions.

Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause. It may involve decompression or drainage of gas (for example, nasogastric suction), urinary catheterization, diuretics for fluid overload, or medical and/or surgical management of the primary condition causing distension. Early assessment is important to distinguish benign causes from potentially serious pathology.