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Symptoms of Malignant Ascites

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), malignant ascites is a condition that develops in cancer patients when fluids that contain cancer cells build up in the abdomen. Malignant ascites most frequently occurs in people with breast, ovarian, uterine, colon, gastrointestinal tract (stomach and intestines) and pancreatic cancers. Ascites can cause severe discomfort and upset the quality of life for affected patients. There are some treatments that can help relieve the effects of malignant ascites.

  1. Abdominal Symptoms

    • Malignant ascites can cause intense pain in the abdominal area. Other common symptoms include abdominal swelling and indigestion.

      A sense of heaviness or feeling bloated or full may lead to a decreased appetite, while the accumulation of fluid can result in weight gain.

      Patients may also notice a change in the appearance of the naval.

    Additional Symptoms

    • Patients with malignant ascites may have problems with nausea or vomiting. They can also experience symptoms that may or may not appear related to the abdomen such as shortness or breath, fatigue or inability to exercise.

      Other possible signs include swollen ankles and hemorrhoids (itching, swelling, pain or bleeding near the anus).

    Diagnosis

    • Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms and examine the abdominal region. In addition, an X-ray of the area may be taken as well as other diagnostic tests.

      These tests include ultrasound (an imaging test that uses sound waves) and computerized tomography (an imaging test that creates a three-dimensional picture) also known as a CT scan.

    Treatment

    • The purpose of treatment is to reduce the uncomfortable and distressing symptoms associated with malignant ascites. If the condition is not causing problems, treatment may not be necessary.

      Reducing the amount of sodium and limiting fluid intake can help lessen the symptoms of ascites.

      Diuretic medications reduce the amount of water in the body and may also help control bloating.

    Invasive Therapy

    • The NCI says the use of a slender needle or tube to remove fluid buildup in the abdomen (paracentesis) can provide temporary relief from ascites. Unfortunately, since this and other procedures for treating ascites are invasive, they may cause discomfort.

      Surgery may be required in rare cases. The operation involves placing a shunt (a passage by which bodily fluid is diverted from one channel to another) or catheter (a small tube placed into a vein) to pump out fluids from the abdomen.

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