Overview
Pancreatic cancer is a serious and life-threatening condition that can be difficult to diagnose. It often has no symptoms until it has advanced to a point where it is very difficult to treat. The average life expectancy for a person with undiagnosed pancreatic cancer is typically short, ranging from a few months to a year.
Symptoms
The symptoms of pancreatic cancer can vary, and may include pain in the upper abdomen or back, unintentional weight loss, loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), and new-onset diabetes. As the cancer progresses, additional symptoms can arise, including nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits.
Diagnosis
If pancreatic cancer is suspected, a doctor may order various tests and imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis. These may include a physical exam, blood tests, a CT scan, an MRI scan, an endoscopic ultrasound, and a biopsy.
Treatment
Treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on the individual case, and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments. In some cases, the cancer can be cured, but in most cases it is not.
Outlook
The outlook for people with undiagnosed pancreatic cancer is poor. Without early diagnosis and treatment, the cancer can spread and become very difficult to treat. The average life expectancy for a person with undiagnosed pancreatic cancer is typically short, ranging from a few months to a year.