Malignant Ascites

This condition is treated in the Gynaecologic Oncology clinic.

Pre-referral work-up

History

Women with new onset suspected malignant ascites:

• Consider the diagnosis of malignant ascites when renal, liver and cardiac disease has been considered as a cause and eliminated

Women with tubal or ovarian or other gynaecological malignancy presenting with ascites may or may not have a significant pelvic mass.

For women presenting with newly suspected malignant ascites possibly due to a gynaecological malignancy. Contact with the services consultants via the Royal Hobart Hospital Switch or their Secretary (Phone: 6166 8049) will ensure prompt attention.  On occasion admission for prompt investigation is the optimal management.  All referrals should comply with the referral standards.

Tests

• FBE, LFT, C&E, coagulation profile
• CT scan abdomen and pelvis and chest
• CEA
• CA 125 level

Interim/GP management

To refer a patient with this condition, please see the Gynaecologic Oncology clinic page for the full referral process and templates.

For more information please see the HealthPathways Tasmania website.

Clinic appointments

🚩 Red location flags are clinical indicators of possible serious underlying conditions requiring further medical intervention. They may or may not indicate an emergency.

Urgent (Category 1)

🚩 Malignant ascites

We will endeavour to see urgent referrals for women with a suspected or proven gynaecologic malignancy within one to two weeks.  If you have any trouble obtaining an urgent appointment please contact our secretary on (03) 6166 8049.

Availability

North

Launceston General Hospital
(Womens + Level 5)
Phone: 1300 977 694
Fax: 03 6777 5214

North West

Royal Hobart Hospital
Phone: 03 6166 0000
Fax: 03 6173 0473

Launceston General Hospital
Phone:   1300 977 694
Fax: 03 6777 5214

South

Wellington Clinics (Level 8)
Phone: 03 6166 0000
Fax: 03 6173 0473