Pancreatic cancer: a diagnostic challenge
Early detection saves lives
Dr. Inès Bertin
Oncologist
In simple terms
Warning signs, FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy, Whipple surgery: progress against a tough cancer.
An often late-diagnosed cancer
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is the 4th leading cause of cancer death. Symptoms appear late: weight loss, painless jaundice, epigastric pain radiating to the back, recent-onset diabetes.
Diagnosis
Abdominal CT, endoscopic ultrasound with biopsy, MRI, CA 19-9. Genetic screening if family history (BRCA1/2, Lynch).
Treatments
- Surgery (Whipple procedure): only curative option, possible in 15-20% of cases
- Chemotherapy: FOLFIRINOX, gemcitabine + nab-paclitaxel
- Targeted therapies: olaparib if BRCA mutation, KRAS G12C inhibitors emerging
- Stereotactic radiotherapy in selected cases
Supportive care
Pancreatic enzymes, nutrition, pain management, psychological support. Early palliative care improves quality of life.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Symptom
- A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
- Diagnosis
- The moment a doctor identifies which illness is causing your symptoms.
- Screening
- A check-up done before you feel ill, to catch a problem early.
- Genetic
- Passed down in your family through your genes.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Pancreatic cancer: a diagnostic challenge?
- Warning signs, FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy, Whipple surgery: progress against a tough cancer.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Pancreatic cancer: a diagnostic challenge?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Pancreatic cancer: a diagnostic challenge?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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