Abstract
In 22 normal subjects and 22 patients suffering from liver cirrhosis and ascites, Na, K and water concentrations in the red blood cells and plasma were determined. In patients with liver cirrhosis complicated by ascites (compared with control subjects): red blood cell Na concentration was significantly increased in cirrhotic patients (P < 0.001), the K and water content in red blood cells was not significantly different in the 2 groups, and Na concentration in the plasma of cirrhotic patients was significantly decreased (P < 0.01).