what causes the abdomen to fill with fluid if you have cancer
Ascites is an abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen, specifically the peritoneal cavity. It occurs when the body makes more fluid than it can remove. Ascites can occur with cancer and other conditions. When ascites is due to cancer, or if the fluid in the abdomen contains cancer cells, it is often called malignant ascites or malignant peritoneal effusion. Causes. People with cancer can develop ascites for different reasons. 1  It may be caused by: 2  cancer cells that spread to and irritate the thin membrane that lines the inner wall of the abdomen (called the peritoneum) 3  tumours that block the lymphatic system so lymph fluid canât flow properly.