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Pancreatic Cancer
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What Is Pancreatic Cancer?
Pancreatic cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably within the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that plays an important role in digestion and blood sugar regulation.
Pancreatic cancer is often difficult to detect in its earliest stages because symptoms may be vague or develop gradually. However, advances in screening, diagnostics, and treatment continue to improve outcomes for many patients.
Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
Symptoms can vary from person to person and may resemble other medical conditions. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Back pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Dark urine
- New-onset diabetes
- Digestive problems
- Nausea or changes in bowel habits
If you experience persistent symptoms, speak with your healthcare provider.
Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cancer
While anyone can develop pancreatic cancer, certain factors may increase risk, including:
- Family history of pancreatic cancer
- Inherited genetic mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, or PALB2
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Certain hereditary cancer syndromes
- Pancreatic cysts
For individuals with a strong family history of cancer, genetic counseling and testing may help identify inherited risk factors and guide screening recommendations.
Diagnosing Pancreatic Cancer
A diagnosis may involve a combination of:
- Physical examination and medical history review
- Blood tests
- CT scans or MRI imaging
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
- Biopsy
- Molecular and biomarker testing
Comprehensive biomarker testing is an important part of modern pancreatic cancer care and may help identify targeted treatment options based on the unique characteristics of the tumor.
Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment recommendations depend on the stage of the disease, tumor location, overall health, and molecular characteristics of the cancer.
Surgery
For eligible patients with localized disease, surgery may offer the best opportunity for long-term disease control.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy remains a cornerstone of pancreatic cancer treatment and may be used before surgery, after surgery, or to treat advanced disease.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy may be used alone or in combination with other treatments to help control cancer growth and manage symptoms.
Targeted Therapy and Precision Medicine
Advances in molecular testing have transformed pancreatic cancer care. Some patients may benefit from targeted therapies designed to attack specific genetic or molecular alterations within cancer cells.
Comprehensive biomarker testing can identify mutations such as:
- BRCA1
- BRCA2
- PALB2
- NTRK
- KRAS alterations
These findings may help guide personalized treatment decisions and identify opportunities for participation in clinical trials.
Clinical Trials
Maryland Oncology Hematology is committed to bringing innovative treatment options to patients through clinical research and clinical trial opportunities when appropriate.
Genetic Testing and Pancreatic Cancer
Genetic testing plays an increasingly important role in pancreatic cancer care. Testing may help:
- Identify inherited cancer risks
- Inform treatment decisions
- Guide screening recommendations for family members
- Determine eligibility for targeted therapies and clinical trials
Our genetics team works closely with patients and families to provide education, counseling, and testing when appropriate.
Why Choose Maryland Oncology Hematology?
At Maryland Oncology Hematology, patients have access to:
- Experienced gastrointestinal cancer specialists
- Comprehensive genetic counseling services
- Advanced biomarker and molecular testing
- Personalized treatment plans
- Clinical trial opportunities
- Convenient care close to home
- Supportive services for patients and caregivers
Our team is dedicated to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care while helping patients access the latest advances in pancreatic cancer treatment.