18 healthy subjects and 15 patients with liver cirrhosis were examined using a 2-hour method of passive leg rising (PLR). Renal and hormonal responses to PLR were investigated. There was a significant increase in diuresis (p < 0.01) and sodium excretion (p < 0.01) simultaneously with a decrease in plasma renin activity (p < 0.01) and plasma aldosterone (p < 0.01) in the group of healthy subjects. Similarly, in the group of patients with liver cirrhosis a significant increase in diuresis (p < 0.01), natriuresis (p < 0.05) together with a decrease in plasma renin activity (p < 0.05) and aldosterone (p < 0.01) were detected. 3 of 15 patients were nonrespondents. We conclude that PLR leads to central volume expansion which causes suppression of sodium retaining factors, and the increase in diuresis and natriuresis not only in healthy objects but also in cirrhotics. This simple method may be used as the first therapeutic regimen in patients with cirrhosis and edemas. (Tab. 2, Fig. 3, Ref. 13.)