Ascites

Hello Dr. Goodman,
My Mom just had 2.2 lt drained for ascites.  Her ca-125 fell 500 points to 380 with doxil.  She missed her treatment last month and just received her 3rd doxil this morning which is why Im assuming she developed ascites.  She never had this problem and its very new to us.  If doxil continues to work will it dry the remaining fluid or prevent it from coming back.  She's been dealing with ovarian cancer coming up on 4 years, what does ascites usually mean, is the cancer out of control?  Does it mean that a person is at the end stages?  Her CT scan yesterday shows all organs are clear, only enlarged lymph nodes and ascites.  Now thats its draind she has her appetite back, no nausea, and feels much better.  Will ascites ever go away or is this a new permanent problem developed that we will have to deal with?
Thank you so much for all your help
Fiana

[Annekathryn Goodman, M.D.]

Hi Fiana
thank you so much for the update.
ascites can be a tough problem. In addition to the IV chemo, sometimes we need to add chemo directly into the abdomen (IP intraperitoneal). Usually cisplatin is given. This is very effective.

Doxil is a good drug but sometimes is not enough to control ascites. here is a nice review of management of ascites.
best wishes

http://www.oncologynursingnews.com/management-of-malignant-ascites-a-review-of-current-treatment-options/article/119406/