Ascites may occur at any stage of pancreatic cancer, but is typically associated with advanced metastatic pancreatic cancer. If the cancer spreads to the peritoneum, it can cause irritation and cause fluid to build up.
Pancreatic ascites can also occur if a cyst or a pseudocyst in the pancreas bursts, allowing the pancreatic juices to seep into the abdominal cavity. However, cirrhosis of the liver, and specifically alcoholic cirrhosis, is the most common cause for ascites. Cirrhosis causes a series of changes in the kidneys that prevents the body from getting rid of excess water-retaining sodium.
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