Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer
To diagnose pancreatic cancer your doctor may have blood or other lab tests ordered. Learn more about some other tests that may be used.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer develops in the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that helps regulate blood sugar and aids in digestion. Each year in the United States, more than 67,000 people are diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas. Most are over 65 years old, with the average age of diagnosis being 70 to 71 years of age.
There are two main types of pancreatic cancer:
- Exocrine pancreatic cancer. This type of pancreatic cancer starts in the ducts which makes the enzymes used to help with digestion. The most common form of pancreatic exocring tumors is adenocarcinoma. (The information provided on this page will focus on this type of pancreatic cancer.)
- Endocrine pancreatic cancer or islet cell cancer. This is a type of pancreatic cancer that begins in the cells that make hormones which control blood-sugar levels. This form of pancreatic cancer is less common, and only accounts for about 8% of all pancreatic cancer diagnosis.
While pancreatic cancer is less common than some other cancers, it is often difficult to detect in its early stages because symptoms may be subtle or develop gradually over time. Common pancreatic cancer symptoms may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Mid-back pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Nausea
- Digestive changes
- Recent onset diabetes.
The cause of pancreatic cancer is still not fully understood, but research has determined the following risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing the disease:
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Older age
- Family history of pancreatic cancer
- Certain inherited genetic conditions
Because early detection can be challenging, it is important to talk with your healthcare provider about persistent symptoms or concerns about your risk. At Virginia Oncology Associates, our pancreatic cancer specialists provide comprehensive, personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's diagnosis and goals. Through a multidisciplinary approach, access to advanced therapies, clinical trials, and supportive care services, we are committed to delivering exceptional cancer care close to home.
Pancreatic Cancer Stages
If cancer of the pancreas is diagnosed, your doctor needs to learn the extent (stage) of the disease to help you choose the best treatment.
Treatment Types for Pancreatic Cancer
Treatment options for people with pancreatic cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy.
