Below are some of the most common treatments. You can also find out what to expect from these treatments. If you think you might have pancreas cancer, read on for more information. This article isn’t a complete treatment guide, but it will give you a basic idea of what to expect.
One type of tumor that can occur in the pancreas is called an IPMN, which is a benign neoplasm that develops within the gland’s ducts. These tumors are slow-growing and typically do not affect the pancreas’ function. However, in about 30% of cases, these tumors may evolve into invasive adenocarcinoma. Current imaging techniques make it possible to detect this tumor before it causes symptoms. If this is the case, resection of the pancreas may be necessary.
Another type of pancreatic cancer is familial. This type of cancer is caused by inherited mutations in the CDKN2A/p16 gene. While the exact cause of this disorder is unknown, genetic factors such as smoking and obesity increase the risk for pancreatic cancer. People who are carriers of this gene have a fifteen to eighty-fold increased risk for developing pancreatic cancer. But if you have a family history of pancreatic cancer, you should consult your doctor and get a thorough evaluation.
Sometimes, pancreas cancer causes liver enlargement. Imaging tests will show the liver as enlarged. However, most people with pancreatic cancer will have the first signs of pancreas cancer – jaundice. Jaundice is a yellowish skin color and is usually the first symptom that is present in an individual with pancreatic cancer. This symptom can also be a sign of other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
Pain after surgery is another common symptom. In addition to the tumor growth, patients with pancreas cancer are likely to experience pain after the surgical resection of their disease. Treatment options for this type of cancer will depend on the severity of the tumor as well as the location of the pain. There is a wide range of pain relief options for patients undergoing pancreatic cancer, including chemotherapy and radiation. However, it is important to understand how your treatments affect your condition.
