Management of malignant ascites

Abstract

The management of malignant ascites is a significant clinical problem. Although most of the patients who have this complication develop have rather significantly limited life expectancy rates, they may be successfully palliated if appropriate steps are taken to provide them with the proper therapy. All of the aforementioned treatment modalities, specifically intracavitary radiotherapy, radioactive colloids, intracavitary chemotherapy, peritoneovenous shunting and immunotherapy have distinct advantages and limitations. With the proper selection of the modality to fit the individual patient, a relatively good result can be obtained, providing, of course, that proper care is taken to anticipate the potential complications, which occur frequently in the treatment of malignant effusion.