New strategies for the management of malignant ascites

Abstract

Intractable malignant ascites accounts for 6% of all hospice admissions. The onset of malignant ascites indicates a poor prognosis, hence minimal supportive therapy is indicated. This paper examines the method of control for malignant ascites presently available to patients, examines their limitations and proposes new strategies for managing intractable malignant ascites. Ascites is discussed in terms of its pathology--that is, as a form of lymphoedema. With this in mind treatment is proposed based upon principles incorporated into lymphoedema management. Nurses have taken a dominant role in the care of patients with lymphoedema and there appears no reason why ascites management cannot become the remit of nurses offering appropriate, but predominantly palliative therapy.