ASCITES MARKET SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2025 - 2032)

Global Ascites Market Size and Forecast – 2025 to 2032

The Global Ascites Market is estimated to be valued at USD 1.48 Bn in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 2.30 Bn by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2025 to 2032. This steady growth reflects increasing prevalence of underlying conditions causing ascites, advancements in diagnostic technologies, and the expansion of treatment options globally, which collectively contribute to market expansion over the forecast period.

Key Takeaways of the Global Ascites Market

• By ascites type, the transudative ascites segment is expected to dominate with a 52.1% share in 2025.
• By ascites severity, uncomplicated ascites, characterized by moderate fluid buildup without severe infection, will hold a 65.7% share in 2025.
• By treatment type, medication will lead with a 40.5% share in 2025.
• North America is expected to lead the market, holding a share of 39.3% in 2025.
• Asia Pacific is anticipated to be the fastest-growing region, with a market share of 23.5% in 2025.

Market Overview

Current market trends show a shift towards minimally invasive and personalized approaches for ascites management. The adoption of advanced drug delivery systems and imaging technologies improves early diagnosis and treatment. Growing awareness among healthcare professionals and patients, along with supportive healthcare policies, is driving demand. The focus on improving the patient quality of life through targeted therapies and digital health integration will shape the market in the coming years.

Current Events and Its Impact

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Segmental Insights

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Ascites Market Insights, By Ascites Type - Transudative ascites contribute the highest market share owing to its predominant occurrence linked to common underlying conditions such as liver cirrhosis and congestive heart failure

Transudative ascites are likely to dominate with an estimated share of 52.1% in 2025. This disorder causes the presence of low-protein fluid in the peritoneal cavity. The prevalence of chronic liver diseases especially cirrhosis which is as a result of hepatitis and alcohol-induced liver harm has directly influenced the prevalence of transudative ascites in this market niche.

In addition, the clinical treatment of transudative ascites that develops due to a complication in chronic diseases requires continuous monitoring and treatment that supports the demand of therapeutic interventions on the same. The relatively predictable pathophysiology of this type of fluid enables a well-known diagnostic method and standardized therapeutic regimens that enable quick intervention and therefore promotes increased healthcare interventions.

Ascites Market Insights, By Ascites Severity - Uncomplicated ascites segment holds the largest share due to its relatively straightforward clinical presentation and easier treatment management

Uncomplicated ascites, with moderate fluid accumulation and no intense infection, will lead in 2025, accounting for 65.7%. It is more widespread and easier to treat than recurrent cases. Its prevalence is closely connected with the initial phases of dysfunction of the liver and other systemic diseases as these disorders are more and more identified through the helped diagnosing instrumentation and the health awareness movement.

The accessibility of efficient first-line treatment of uncomplicated ascites, including diuretics and sodium limit, allows the physicians to control the condition on the first level and prevent complications. Moreover, patients who have uncomplicated ascites usually do not need intensive medical procedures, making it easier to facilitate the outpatient patterns of care and patient adherence to the therapeutic regimens.

Ascites Market Insights, By Treatment Type - Medication stands as the leading contributor driven by its non-invasive nature, broad applicability across ascites types, and advancements in pharmacotherapy

In 2025, medications, including diuretics, albumin therapy, vasopressin receptor antagonists, and antibiotics, will collectively hold a 40.5% market share. Nevertheless, the preferred treatment in the management of fluid overload will continue to be diuretics as they are effective in stimulating the renal elimination of sodium, convenient, and economical.

In September 2025, Corstasis Therapeutics, a U.S.-based biopharmaceutical company, received U.S. FDA approval for Enbumyst, a nasal spray diuretic. This treatment targets edema caused by heart, liver, and kidney diseases, including ascites. The approval marks the first intranasal loop diuretic for these conditions.

Key Trends in Ascites Treatment: Paracentesis, Albumin, TIPS, and Diuretics

Paracentesis Frequency

• Standard for managing tense ascites, with frequent use for symptom relief.
• High-volume paracentesis (>5L) increases albumin usage and downstream care.
• Growing in both developed and emerging markets.

Albumin Usage Rates

• Essential after large-volume paracentesis to prevent circulatory dysfunction.
• Usage rising, especially in developed regions; cost limits adoption in emerging markets.
• Recommended infusion: 6-8g per liter of ascites removed.

TIPS Procedures

• Increasing use for refractory ascites unresponsive to paracentesis and diuretics.
• High success rates, but limited by cost and patient risk factors.
• Adoption growing in specialized centers.

Diuretic Utilization

• First-line treatment for uncomplicated ascites, but often ineffective in refractory cases.
• Limited growth due to resistance in a significant portion of patients.
• Combination therapies and interventions (e.g., TIPS) becoming more common.

Market Implications

• Paracentesis and albumin remain growth drivers in volume; TIPS and albumin are higher-value but slower to scale.
• Emerging markets present growth opportunities, but cost barriers persist.

Challenges

• High costs for advanced therapies (TIPS, albumin) may hinder widespread adoption.
• Diuretic resistance and side effects slow progress in non-intervention markets.

Regional Insights

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North America Ascites Market Analysis and Trends

North America is expected to dominate the ascites market in 2025, with a share of 39.3%. This dominance is driven by a well-established healthcare system, widespread adoption of medical technology, and a high concentration of pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers specializing in ascites management. The area enjoys high government support with regard to healthcare financing, and regulatory controls that support innovation and quick commercialization of new treatment remedies.

High healthcare spending and general awareness regarding liver diseases as causes of ascites, especially in the U.S. makes it a leader. Large companies like Baxter International, Becton Dickinson and Medtronic have high presence in this area and they have contributed to the area in terms of designing of paracentesis kits, drainage systems and diagnostic equipment that are designed to be used in the treatment of ascites.

Asia Pacific Ascites Market Analysis and Trends

Asia Pacific is expected to have the highest growth rate, with a 23.5% share in the ascites market in 2025. This growth is driven by the rising prevalence of liver diseases, improving healthcare infrastructure, and increased awareness among patients and healthcare providers. Other economies such as India and China are recording a high rate of improvement in the accessibility and diagnostics of healthcare due to encouraging government policies meant to enhance the health status of the people and management of diseases.

Also, the increasing availability and affordability of products is being promoted by the increasing availability of multinational pharmaceutical companies and local manufacturers. Other companies like Terumo Corporation, Chongqing Lummy Medical Equipment, and NIPRO Corporation are diversifying their operations on a regional level launching low-cost and technologically superior ascitic fluid drainage and treatment equipment.

Global Ascites Market Outlook for Key Countries

U.S. Ascites Market Trends

The ascites market in the U.S. is very advanced and concerned with the state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment solutions of ascites. Large health care providers take advantage of novel catheter systems and minimally invasive devices created by key players in the industry, to push towards optimal patient outcomes. Firms such as Baxter International and Becton Dickinson are taking key roles by providing a full package of products that cater to the outpatient and the inpatient care.

In May 2020, Bio Products Laboratory (BPL), a leading manufacturer of plasma-derived therapies, launched ALBUMINEX 5% and ALBUMINEX 25% in the U.S. These solutions are approved by the FDA for treating hypovolemia, ascites, and hypoalbuminemia, among other conditions. BPL, headquartered in Durham, North Carolina, uses a four-step process to produce highly purified albumin from human plasma.

Germany Ascites Market Trends

The healthcare sector in Germany has a central role to play in enhancing the ascites market by providing a strong insurance program and emphasis on early diagnosis and intervention. The support increases access to advanced treatments including drainage and management equipment which play a vital role in the management of ascites.

The presence of large pharmaceutical and medical devices sector in the country that includes such players as Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA and B. Braun Melsangen guarantees the access to high-quality products to manage ascites. The restrictive nature of the regulatory sphere in Germany makes the country an exemplar of continuous research and development, which makes it a frontrunner in new technologies that can be offered in the treatment of ascites.

China Ascites Market Trends

The booming growth in Chinese ascites market is driven by the growth in hospitals and specialty treatment centers, which are backed by the aggressive attention given by the government in the modernization of healthcare. Rising cases of liver diseases indicate a big population of patients in need of ascites treatment products.

Domestic companies, such as Chongqing Lummy Medical Equipment, have expanded their market share by offering innovative, cost-effective products. Their collaboration with global giants has accelerated technology transfer, boosting their growth. This trend is supported by policies that seek to raise spending on healthcare and development of infrastructure.

Japan Ascites Market Trends

Japan is on the forefront in coming up with superior medical applications in the treatment of ascites. The firms such as NIPRO Corporation, which is known to be innovative in the drainage catheters and fluid monitoring system, are instrumental in contributing to the market growth. They are concentrated on research and development, which provides patients with the opportunity to use the latest technologies that enhance the efficiency and safety of the treatment process.

The aging population and advanced healthcare in Japan are increasing the demand for effective ascites management solutions. The policies that the government has taken to ensure healthcare innovation, coupled with the extensive insurance systems, assist in enhancing patient access to these advanced therapies, which further validates Japan as a leader in the ascites market.

Healthcare Burden and Cost of Care for Ascites

• Ascites incurs high healthcare costs, particularly in cases of cirrhosis and malignancies. Patients are known to be frequently hospitalized, to undergo a number of procedures such as paracentesis and experience complications such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) and renal failure. This leads to excessive resource use, higher readmission rates, and decreased quality of life for patients.
• Repeat hospitalizations and high-cost treatments drive the cost of care. In the U.S., the cost of treating a patient with cirrhotic ascites during the first year of management increases by an average of USD 0.05 million. A telemonitoring study on ascites management found that the cost of managing 100 patients over six months is approximately USD 1.22 million, or USD 0.012 million per patient. Innovations like telemonitoring and outpatient care models can help minimize these costs by reducing hospital visits and procedures.

Market Players, Key Developments, and Competitive Intelligence

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Key Developments

• In August 2025, PharmaCyte Biotech, Inc., a biotechnology company developing cellular therapies for cancer and diabetes, announced the commencement of a pivotal study aimed at determining if its signature therapy, Cell-in-a-Box (CypCaps), combined with the chemotherapy prodrug ifosfamide, can delay the production and accumulation of malignant ascites.
• In December 2024, Sequana Medical, a Belgium-based pioneer in treating fluid overload, announced that the U.S. FDA approved its alfapump for recurrent or refractory ascites due to liver cirrhosis. This approval makes alfapump the first active implantable medical device to continuously remove ascites from the abdomen into the bladder.
• In November 2024, Pharmanovia, a global pharmaceutical company, partnered with Lindis Biotech to commercialize catumaxomab for malignant ascites treatment. The bispecific monoclonal antibody targets EpCAM-positive cancers and is expected to become the only approved drug for malignant ascites. The European Medicines Agency gave a positive opinion in October 2024, with approval anticipated by the end of the year.
• In June 2021, BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company), a global leader in medical technology, announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had granted expanded 510(k) clearance for its PeritX Peritoneal Catheter System. This system is the first and only U.S. FDA-approved at-home solution for draining both malignant and non-malignant ascites in the U.S.

 Top Strategies Followed by Global Ascites Market Players

• Established market players spend extensively on research and development to be at the frontiers of innovation by developing high-performance, trustworthy, and user-friendly ascites management products. These corporations are majorly involved in research and development to remain in tune with the trends in technology and also to be compliant with the regulations of the globe. They also develop strategic engagements with important industry players and OEMs in order to increase product portfolios, exchange expertise, and gain wider networks.
  • The companies such as BD have placed a lot of emphasis on R&D to come up with high performance and advanced ascites management products. This is represented in their PeritX system that allows both malignant and non-malignant ascites to be managed at home. They also establish strategic alliances to widen the product lines and keep within the regulatory requirements.

• Mid-level players use a slightly different strategy, as they pay more attention to the provision of cost-effective solutions to balance between quality and affordability. This policy specifically targets price-sensitive customers especially in the developing world where healthcare funds are limited.
  • Firms like CareFusion and Teleflex focus on the lower-priced market solutions. They provide quality but at low prices by providing affordable reliable products to areas with low budgets on healthcare.

• Small players in the global ascites market make a difference by targeting niche markets, usually specializing in individual features or very innovative products that address particular clinical requirements. Such companies tend to be more dynamic and ready to implement innovative technologies as fast as possible, and it assists them in cutting niche in a saturated market.
  • Toray Industries through its dialysis and ascites management systems is aimed at niche clinical requirements. They have the ability to cut a niche, especially their innovative methods of managing home-based ascites of a certain group of patients, given their dexterity in developing state-of-the-art technologies.

Market Report Scope

Ascites Market Report Coverage

Ascites Market Dynamics

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Ascites Market Driver - Rising Prevalence of Liver Cirrhosis

The rising prevalence of liver cirrhosis in the world is a serious factor in the ascites market as the condition is closely related to the first one. Liver cirrhosis- progressive scarring of liver tissue which causes dysfunction of the liver and is often accompanied by complications such as portal hypertension which directly causes the formation of fluid in abdominal cavity, referred to as ascites. Chronic hepatitis infections, alcoholism, and non-alcohol fatty liver disease are some of the factors that have contributed to the increasing rate of cirrhosis in different populations.

In June 2025, the Global Liver Institute (GLI), a leading U.S. liver health advocacy group, warned of a sharp rise in fatty liver disease and its link to ascites. GLI reported that nearly 40% of the global population now faces steatotic liver disease, largely driven by obesity and diabetes. The institute urged governments to integrate liver screening into routine metabolic care to combat this growing crisis. Meanwhile, the JAMA Network Open, a prominent U.S. medical research publisher, projected that by 2050, over 122 million Americans will suffer from metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).

This comes as cirrhosis continues to rise globally, with 1.48 million deaths recorded in 2019, an 8.1% increase from 2017. The prevalence of cirrhosis, particularly due to alcohol and NAFLD, is expected to escalate, emphasizing the urgent need for early intervention and screening to manage complications like ascites, variceal bleeding, and hepatic encephalopathy.

Ascites Market Opportunity - Emergence of Targeted Cancer Therapies for Malignant Ascites

A major opportunity is experienced in the global ascites market due to the introduction of specific cancer therapies in the treatment of the malignant ascites, which is a severe complication mostly caused by advanced stage of cancers, including ovarian, gastric and colorectal cancers. Conventional modalities of treatment of malignant ascites have been predominantly palliative in nature and aimed at the alleviation of the symptoms by paracentesis or diuretics but these modalities tend to give only a short-lived effect. But recent progress in oncology has resulted in molecular pathways of tumor growth and fluid retention being targeted with specific inhibitors that are used as targeted therapies.

In November 2024, Pharmanovia, a global pharmaceutical company, partnered with Lindis Biotech to commercialize catumaxomab for malignant ascites treatment. The bispecific monoclonal antibody targets EpCAM-positive cancers and is expected to become the only approved drug for malignant ascites. The European Medicines Agency gave a positive opinion in October 2024, with approval anticipated by the end of the year.

Analyst Opinion (Expert Opinion)

• The ascites market is growing with the wider clinical approval and reimbursement of ultrasound-guided paracentesis equipment, automated drainage apparatus, and albumin treatments. The introduction is being influenced by increasing incidences of chronic liver disease and robust guideline endorsement, and the barrier to the move includes high albumin price and poor availability of advanced procedures like TIPS in the new markets. Clinical evidence exchange has been expedited by scientific forums such as the AASLD Liver Meeting, EASL Congress, and APASL conferences that co-ordinate the treatment processes and enhance payer confidence.
• Recent developments, including India with its liver care scheme with the supply of public-sector paracentesis kits, Italy with its outpatient ascites unit with reduced readmission rates and AI-enhanced ultrasound authorization in Taiwan, are demonstrating the worth of organized treatment channels. The collaborations between hospitals and industries, such as the research of the albumin optimization in Europe, demonstrate the potential decrease of complications and costs, which confirms the long-term potential of the market.

Market Segmentation

• Ascites Type Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Transudative Ascites
  • Exudative Ascites
  • Malignant Ascites
  • Chylous Ascites
  • Hemorrhagic Ascites
  • Infectious Ascites
• Ascites Severity Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Uncomplicated Ascites
  • Recurrent/Refractory Ascites
• Treatment Type Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Medication (Diuretics, Albumin Therapy, Vasopressin Receptor Antagonists, Antibiotics, Targeted Cancer Therapy)
  • Paracentesis (Therapeutic Paracentesis, Large-Volume Paracentesis, Image-Guided Paracentesis)
  • Surgical Interventional Procedures (TIPS, Peritoneovenous Shunt, Indwelling Catheters & Drainage Systems)
  • Others
• Clinical Grade Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Grade 1
  • Grade 2
  • Grade 3
• Route of Administration Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Oral
  • Parenteral
• Distribution Channel Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Hospital Pharmacies
  • Retail Pharmacies
  • Online Pharmacies
• End User Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • Hospitals
  • Specialty Clinics
  • Ambulatory Surgical Centers
  • Home Care Settings
• Regional Insights (Revenue, USD Bn, 2020 - 2032)
  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Mexico
    • Rest of Latin America
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • U.K.
    • Spain
    • France
    • Italy
    • Russia
    • Rest of Europe
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • ASEAN
    • Rest of Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
    • GCC Countries
    • Israel
    • Rest of Middle East
  • Africa
    • South Africa
    • North Africa
    • Central Africa
• Key Players Insights
  • Baxter International
  • Fresenius Kabi
  • CSL Behring
  • Grifols SA
  • Pfizer Inc
  • Novartis AG
  • Otsuka Pharmaceutical
  • Bayer AG
  • AstraZeneca
  • Cook Medical
  • Boston Scientific
  • Medtronic
  • Becton Dickinson
  • Cardinal Health
  • Teleflex

Sources

Primary Research Interviews

Industry Stakeholders list

• Hepatologists from liver transplant centers
• Gastroenterology device procurement managers

End Users list

• Interventional radiologists in tertiary hospitals
• Critical care physicians managing refractory ascites

Government and International Databases

• WHO Global Health Observatory
• CDC Chronic Liver Disease Statistics
• European Liver Patients’ Association Data Hub
• National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Liver Disease Programs
• UK NHS Digital Liver Disease Data
• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare – Cirrhosis Reports

Trade Publications

• Hepatology News
• Gastroenterology & Endoscopy News
• MedTech Dive
• BioSpectrum
• Medical Device Network
• HealthCare Global Magazine

Academic Journals

• Journal of Hepatology
• Hepatology (AASLD)
• Gastroenterology Journal
• Liver International
• New England Journal of Medicine
• World Journal of Gastroenterology

Reputable Newspapers

• The New York Times Health Section
• The Guardian Health
• Financial Times Healthcare
• Reuters Health
• STAT News
• The Washington Post Medical Section

Industry Associations

• American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD)
• European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL)
• International Ascites Club
• World Gastroenterology Organisation
• Digestive Disease Week (DDW) Scientific Network
• Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL)

Public Domain Resources

• ClinicalTrials.gov
• FDA MAUDE Database
• OpenFDA
• Global Burden of Disease (IHME)
• Open Payments CMS Database

Proprietary Elements

• CMI Data Analytics Tool: Proprietary analytics tool to analyze real-time market trends, consumer behavior, and technology adoption in market
• Proprietary CMI Existing Repository of Information for Last 8 Years