Ascites
In some pancreatic cancer patients, there can be a troubling large collection of fluid in the abdominal cavity itself called ascites. The true cause of this fluid build-up is not fully understood, and may vary from person to person but it is presumably often due in part to factors related to the existence of lymphatic or peritoneal metastases. Ascites may cause significant pain and difficulty breathing.
Some physicians will prescribe diuretic medication which may work well in select patients, but which also can give mixed results. Additionally, another approach is to offer patients with ascites an abdominal tap (or paracentesis), in which a special needle is inserted directly into the abdominal cavity and the fluid is drawn off.