Catheter-induced ascites--an unusual complication of parenteral feeding.

A nearly fatal complication of parenteral feeding is reported. An emaciated infant with severe Shigella dysentery was treated with intravenous feeding through a catheter in the inferior vena cava. After three days severe ascites developed acutely. Venocavography revealed effusion into the peritoneal cavity due to the catheter having penetrated the wall of the inferior vena cava.