Final answer:
Spironolactone is considered the diuretic of choice in the initial treatment of portal hypertensive ascites.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the initial treatment of portal hypertensive ascites, spironolactone is considered the diuretic of choice.
Portal hypertensive ascites is a condition characterized by fluid accumulation in the abdomen due to increased pressure in the portal vein.
Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that works by blocking the action of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes water and sodium retention. By inhibiting aldosterone, spironolactone helps to decrease fluid accumulation in the body and reduce ascites in patients with portal hypertension.