Pancreatic cancer: a diagnostic challenge
Early detection saves lives
Dr. Inès Bertin
Oncologist
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.
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