Pancreatic Cancer

Alternate Names : Cancer of the Pancreas

What are the treatments for the disease?

Treatment varies depending upon the extent of the disease. If the disease is localized and the tumor is small, surgical removal of the tumor may offer long-term control of the cancer. Chemotherapy with radiation therapy may be offered once a small tumor is removed. This may be helpful in slowing the return of the tumor.

Most pancreatic cancers are found when the tumors are too large to remove. Large tumors may block the intestines. Surgery may be performed to bypass the blockage and relieve symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Chemotherapy may be offered to relieve symptoms, such as pain, by shrinking the tumor. Advanced pancreatic cancer is not usually curable.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Most people treated with surgery generally heal without difficulty. The effects of radiation therapy are temporary and will resolve after completion. During therapy, the person is likely to experience nausea, skin burning, temporarily lowered blood cell counts, and difficulty swallowing. Medicines will help control the nausea.

Chemotherapy given to a person with early-stage disease makes the radiation work better. By itself, the chemotherapy can cause mouth sores, stomach upset, fatigue, hair loss, and increased risk of infections. Radiation may intensify some of the side effects, but this is temporary. Chemotherapy given to treat late-stage cancers is usually well tolerated. It is given to relieve symptoms.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Pancreatic cancer is likely to progress, even with treatment. As the cancer progresses, treatments can be given to make the person more comfortable.

How is the disease monitored?

Someone with pancreatic cancer will have regular visits with the healthcare provider. CT scans will indicate the progress of the disease. When the liver is damaged by cancer, it will begin to fail. Liver function tests will also indicate how well the liver is functioning. As different interventions are used to bring comfort, the person will be monitored closely. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.