Malignant
ascites is one of the most common sequela of
epithelial ovarian cancer. It causes significant symptoms and can have a detrimental impact on patient quality of life, especially in women with recurrent
ovarian cancer. The management of symptomatic
ascites consists of both mechanical treatments that aim to drain the peritoneal cavity, and medical
therapies that prevent and diminish the development of
ascites. Mechanical options include serial paracentesis, peritoneal
catheters, and
peritoneovenous shunts. Pharmaceutical treatments include
diuretics,
angiogenesis inhibitors, and other targeted agents. There is a perception, without formal analysis, that intractable
ascites is less common in the
taxane era of
therapy. In this review paper, we highlight current and emerging therapeutic strategies, complications and
contraindications, and their effects on patient quality of life.