Computed tomographic diagnosis of pseudoascites (floating viscera syndrome)

Two cases of excessive fat deposition in the abdomen, confused clinically as massive ascites, are reported. Computed tomography (CT) has proven useful in making a definitive diagnosis of fat deposition in the abdominal and retroperitoneal space and has made further clinical studies unnecessary. No prior cases of pseudoascites (floating viscera syndrome) have been reported in the radiologic literature despite the specificity of CT diagnosis.