Posted on March 23, 2010.
What is the prognosis w / ovarian cancer and recurrent ascites? My grandmother, who is 83 years old, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer two years ago. She was stage 4 once, back in step 2, and now back to step 4. She has extreme pain and abdominal swelling (ascitic). She was 6 liters of fluid off her stomach three weeks ago, and over 8 quarts kidnapped two days ago. His stomach has already started to swell again. She can not take certain types of chemotherapy because his esosphagus was damaged. She had to get chemo intraveneously yesterday, but the doctor would not allow it, because it did not look well enough. My grandparents are old school and does not question the doctor for anything, then we have no idea how long it may have to live. Does anyone have experience with a prognosis, life expectancy, quality of life? She is a Christian, she is ready to go to the Lord, but she continues to have procedures (parencentesis) is because her husband is not ready to let go.
A paracentesis will not make your granmother live longer, it will just make him more comfortable. She can breathe easier and sleep better, if the liquid is removed. Problem is that it is as fast as it is removed, then creates an imbalance of electrolytes and dehydrated it literally. Seems ridiculous, but true. Most doctors leave the huge amount of liquid and remove it just to ease.
Her husband is going to need a lot of support from your family since his days are numbered.
Peace and love gods to your grandmother, grandfather and family.
RN