calculate_saag: Serum-Ascites Albumin Gradient (SAAG)

In cliot: Clinical Indices and Outcomes Tools

Serum-Ascites Albumin Gradient (SAAG)

Description

Calculates the Serum-Ascites Albumin Gradient (SAAG) to help determine the etiology of ascites. The gradient is the difference between the serum albumin concentration and the ascites fluid albumin concentration. It distinguishes between ascites caused by portal hypertension and other causes.

Usage

calculate_saag(serum_albumin, ascites_albumin)

Arguments

serum_albumin	Numeric. Serum Albumin level in g/dL.
ascites_albumin	Numeric. Ascites fluid Albumin level in g/dL.

Value

A list containing:

SAAG_Score	The calculated gradient (Serum - Ascites).
Interpretation	Diagnostic classification based on the 1.1 g/dL threshold.

References

Runyon BA, Montano AA, Akriviadis EA, et al. The serum-ascites albumin gradient is superior to the exudate-transudate concept in the differential diagnosis of ascites. Ann Intern Med. 1992;117(3):215-220. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-117-3-215

Examples

calculate_saag(4.0, 1.2)

calculate_saag(3.2, 2.8)

cliot documentation built on Dec. 1, 2025, 1:06 a.m.