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Pancreatic Cancer

The importance of early diagnosis and current treatment approaches in pancreatic cancer.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer arises from the cells of the pancreatic gland — most often the exocrine cells. The most common form is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Because the pancreas lies deep in the abdomen and the disease produces few early symptoms, the majority of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Research into screening tools and biomarkers aims to improve early detection. In high-risk individuals (family history of pancreatic cancer, BRCA2 mutation, chronic pancreatitis) MRI or endoscopic ultrasound surveillance can be considered.

Long-term survival is achievable in resectable disease treated with the Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) and adjuvant chemotherapy. In advanced disease, FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel regimens are widely used.

Symptoms

Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), itching
Pain in the back or abdomen
Loss of appetite and weight loss
Nausea and vomiting
New-onset diabetes or rapidly worsening control of pre-existing diabetes
Change in stool colour (pale or oily stool)
Fatigue and weakness

Risk Factors

Smoking
Chronic pancreatitis
Type 2 diabetes and obesity
Family history of pancreatic cancer
BRCA1/2 and PALB2 mutations
Long-term heavy alcohol use
Older age (risk rises after 60)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Unexplained weight loss together with back or abdominal pain
  • Jaundice with dark urine and pale stool
  • New-onset or rapidly worsening diabetes
  • Genetic counselling if there is a family history of pancreatic cancer
  • Regular imaging follow-up if you have chronic pancreatitis

Treatment Methods

01
Surgery: Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) or distal pancreatectomy
02
Adjuvant chemotherapy: gemcitabine, capecitabine or modified FOLFIRINOX
03
Neoadjuvant therapy: in borderline-resectable tumours before surgery
04
Palliative chemotherapy: FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel
05
ERCP/biliary stent: to relieve obstructive jaundice
06
Pain control and palliative care

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.