Two weeks ago, following a routine scan, my partner was told they have omental cake pressing on the bowel and they have ascites. Last week they took biopsies from the cake and drained 9 litres of dark straw coloured ascitic fluid.
From my research, I understand that these symptoms mean a primary tumour has spread and that the prognosis is 1 - 4 months. We hope to see the consultant in the next week or so but the waiting is agonising.
Thank you.
Hello Badger35
Thank you for getting in touch and welcome to the Online Community. I’m Hilary one of the Cancer Information Nurses here on the Macmillan Support Line.
I am sorry to read that your partner has been told that they have omental cake. The effects of this must be very difficult for them to experience. I hope that the draining of the ascites has helped to make them feel somewhat more physically comfortable.
Some online information can be quite helpful but, until all tests and investigations are concluded it is not possible for the doctors to have a full picture and make a management plan or discuss a prognosis. It is important that everyone is treated as an individual and their personal situation considered as such.
I appreciate how difficult this must be for you both. Waiting for appointments and results can be a very anxious time. You might find this information helpful as you wait. Your partner may have a Clinical Nurse Specialist who may be able to talk to you about your concerns and support you through this time.
When you do have your appointment with the consultant this information may help to frame your conversations with them.
In the meantime, while waiting for their appointment, your partner and /or yourself may find it helpful to call and speak to one of us nurses on our telephone support line to talk things through and receive some support.
I hope this information is helpful. If you have any further questions, please get in touch again. You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email or contact us through Webchat
Best wishes
Hilary.
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
Ref/HG/GG
