The stage of the cancer is determined by how far the tumor has spread. The cancer is usually referred to as pre-cancer or stage 0 if the cells are in the pancreas itself. Other stages include pancreatic tumors that have spread to nearby tissues and major lymph nodes.
The most common diagnostic tests for neuroendocrine tumors include CT scans and octreotide scans. The former involves the injection of a radioisotope into a vein, followed by a scan to determine the sites of concentration. The latter two tests, called pancreatic polypeptide/chromogranin level tests, determine the extent of cancer and may help with the development of treatment options.
Approximately 80% of patients with pancreatic cancer will be diagnosed after they have developed the disease. Treatment options for this type of cancer are highly complicated, and patients must be very lucky if they are diagnosed at an early age. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is rare before the age of 40 and is diagnosed in those who are over 60. However, it is possible to develop pancreatic cancer at an early age, especially if you have a family history of the disease or inherited breast cancer.
Pain can be another symptom of pancreatic cancer. The tumor may press on nerves surrounding the pancreas and cause intense pain. Pain medications can be administered to help alleviate this condition, while chemotherapy and radiation can slow the growth of the tumor and reduce the pain. Alcohol injections into the abdominal nerves may also help relieve pain. The presence of pain after eating can also indicate a tumor in the pancreas.
When pancreatic cancer is found early, it can be treated with surgery or radiation. Radiation therapy is one possible treatment, and it is best reserved for tumors that are small and resectable. This treatment option is best performed at a regional referral center and should be combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have a tumor in the head, however, it may be necessary to remove it entirely.
A diagnosis of pancreas cancer is life-changing, and it is often helpful to find support groups to discuss the diagnosis and treatment. Sharing your experiences with other people with the same diagnosis can be empowering and beneficial for your emotional and mental health. Additionally, you can find many helpful resources by joining a support group. This way, you’ll be able to discuss your fears and concerns with others who have gone through the same journey.
When can pancreas cancer be diagnosed? Early symptoms can be vague. Some people may experience weight loss, yellow skin, and pain in the upper abdomen. However, the signs of pancreas cancer may not be immediately obvious. A person may not notice any of these symptoms unless a tumor grows large and spreads throughout the body. This can take a long time for a doctor to detect. The symptoms of pancreas cancer can vary based on the location of the tumor.
