Pancreatic Cancer: Overview
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach. Pancreatic cancer is the 11th most common cancer in the United States, and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death.
Symptoms
The earliest symptom of pancreatic cancer is often a vague pain in the upper abdomen or back. Other symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, and nausea and vomiting. As the cancer progresses, other symptoms may include digestive problems, such as difficulty digesting food or feeling full quickly, and blood clots.
Diagnosis
If a person experiences any of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer, a doctor may order tests to diagnose the condition. These tests may include blood tests, imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRI scans, and biopsies. A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue from the pancreas and analyzing it under a microscope for cancer cells.
Treatment
The treatment for pancreatic cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, as well as the person's overall health. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used.