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Pancreatic Cancer Archive Questions

Below are Dr. Hanna’s answers to Pancreatic Cancer questions
received through the Ask the Expert feature.

This content is provided for informational purposes only, and is not intended
to be a substitute for individual medical advice in diagnosing or treating a
health problem. Please consult with your physician about your specific health
care concerns.

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Questions about this topic have been organized into several categories.
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. Diagnosis
. General information
. Treatment
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. General information

Now displaying records 1 to 7 of 7.

Q : 1 02/21/2012	Doctors wanted to perform a biopsy to confirm pancreatic cancer in my mother, but were reluctant to do so because she is diabetic. Though there is no confirmed diagnosis, she is experiencing many of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer. Is there a diagnostic test that doesn't involve biopsy? If it is pancreatic cancer, are there treatment options that don't involve surgery? She should have endoscopic ultrasound of the pancreas or a pancreatic CT to identify the tumor mass. The only potentially curative option incorporates surgery.
Q : 2 04/12/2011	What body systems are affected by pancreatic cancer and how would you determine which ones are being affected? Are they based on the stage of the cancer? And if so are they always the same for each stage? If the cancer is localized, it affects only the pancreas and bile duct. If locally advanced, it can affect adjacent organs and large vessels. If it spreads, it can affect other organs, most commonly liver and peritoneum.
Q : 3 02/07/2011	My father just found out he has pancreatic cancer. He's in a hospital now and he still hasn't had a biopsy. His wife has said to me that his cancer is inoperable and she is sending him to a rehab place with a DNR. How can she determine his fate when he hasn't even had a biopsy yet? If there is evidence of widespread metastasis seen on imaging studies, doctors are able to determine the extent of the cancer without a biopsy.
Q : 4 02/20/2008	My sister died of pancreatic cancer in 1993. I am now the same age as she was when diagnosed. What are the chances of my getting pancreatic cancer as well, and is there a way to be proactive about protecting myself? You might have a slight increased risk. There is no cost-effective screening test. To be proactive, make sure you get all your screening tests (mammography, colonoscopy, Pap smears, annual exam) and if you have any unusual symptoms, see your doctor. Eat healthy and exercise.
Q : 5 09/07/2007	My mother passed away form this cancer last August and I was wondering if it is hereditary. To determine if cancer is hereditary, detailed family history is required. Any major medical center would have a gentic counsler who can help you and your family determine if any testing is required.
Q : 6 03/26/2007	What is the likelihood of the CA19-9 tumor marker increasing after a resection? If the marker does increase, is there reason for concern? Yes, you should have imaging studies to determine if there is recurrence.
Q : 7 02/18/2006	Does the pancreas regenerate itself after partial removal? No.

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