Definition: Ascites is a term which describes fluid that has accumulated in the abdomen in excess amount. In the presence of ovarian cancer, ascitic fluid often contain free-floating cancer cells which have broken off from the cancerous growths. Normally, a few gallons of peritoneal fluid is produced inside your abdomen daily, but it is efficiently absorbed and does not accumulate. This fluid circulates more or less clockwise and helps lubricate the intestines so they can move freely about.
When more than a little fluid is found on a scan, this means cancer cells have added to fluid production and are also interfering with absorption. When this happens, the abdomen (belly) can grow or swell and one can look like they are pregnant. Other reasons for ascites include noncancerous liver, heart and kidney diseases. In these cases, the ascites is called nonmalignant.
When more than a little fluid is found on a scan, this means cancer cells have added to fluid production and are also interfering with absorption. When this happens, the abdomen (belly) can grow or swell and one can look like they are pregnant. Other reasons for ascites include noncancerous liver, heart and kidney diseases. In these cases, the ascites is called nonmalignant.
Pronunciation: ah-sy-tees
Also Known As: ascitic
Common Misspellings: asytees
asitees
Examples: The ultrasound and CAT scan both showed the presence of ascites. During surgery, ascitic fluid was discovered.
