Stage of ovarian cancer

Our family just found out my mother in law has ovarian cancer. We don't have all the details yet but she is experiencing fluid in her abdomen and around her lungs. Does this mean she has late stages of ovarian cancer?

[cjan222]

I had about 3 liters in my abdomen and I'm stage 1c.

[bravely2]

I am a relative newbie at this, dx 3/19/10 referred for CT scan b/c of fluid in abdomen and chest.
Chest fluid was drained and found to contain OVCA cells so I am listed as stage 4.
If the chest fluid causes shortness of breath, SOB, it is drained.  When drained ,it is analyzed for presence of OVCA cells.  If yes, the OVCA is considered Stage 4.
Fluid can also return fairly quickly if no other treatment is done.  I needed to have it drained again after about a week b/c of SOB, while waiting to be seen by my oncologist.  
My base CA-125 was 2628, and after one chemo down to 575 which I am very happy about.  My tumors were too extensive to debulk at the get-go, surgeon suggested 3 chemos then re-evaluate for surgery after these tx's w/new CT scan.  I think a pt's response also may depend on their general health and to a lesser degree, their age, and if they have other medical conditions.
Your first few days/weeks are full of questions and no answers.  When you get to see your surgeon, or possibly the oncologist b/c you may have to go my route w/ chemo first, you will get the answers you are looking for.  Please make sure to go to a larger hospital which is cancer focused, where you will see well qualified drs who have experience in cases such as your MIL's.  
I was luckily seen by a very good surgeon quickly and started my treatment 2.5 weeks after diagnosis.