Ascite Treatment

My 77 year old mom was diagnosed with stage IV ovarian cancer 3 years ago.  She underwent surgery and it was followed up with chemo.  She was cleared up for approx 9 months and then the cancer came back as a tumor behind her spleen.  She again underwent chemo and the next ct scan came out clear and so chemo treatments were stopped approximately 9 months ago.  She was being monitored via CA-125 tests.  Just 1 month ago her CA-125's went up to 179 and then within two weeks jumped to 593.  The Dr. started her on chemo and we received the CT scan results today.  The tumor is now back and much larger adjacent to her spleen and a new tumor has shown up posterior to the left lobe of her liver.  My biggest concern is that she has ascites throughout her abdomen as well as predominant ascites being seen in the pelvis.  Her Dr. has started her on a new regiment of chemo but there is no mention of removing the fluid.  When I asked him today all he would say is hopefully the chemo will take care of them.  I've noticed some articles and such on the removal of the fluid and ascites.  Can anyone give me any feedback!!

[alanpvegas]

You can bring it up with the physician, however not all of them care to 'drain'/'tap' ascites.  Although disturbing, ascites can be cleared by successful chemotherapy but it's primarily drained if it is causing discomfort to the patient (i.e., only drained if medically necessary due to discomfort, etc.).

Help your mom explain to the onc. if this is causing her issues...the ascites...as most onc. are just focused on treatment and will assume verything is ok if you don't complain enough!