Pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect and treat because it is most often found in its advanced stages and its symptoms are like other conditions.
Most people aren’t screened for pancreatic cancer, which means it’s important to understand your risk factors and methods of prevention.
Minimizing your pancreatic cancer risk factors may include quitting smoking cigarettes, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet. It’s also important to understand your personal and family history of certain conditions such as chronic pancreatitis and diabetes.
At the OSUCCC – James, our team of pancreatic cancer experts is dedicated to understanding pancreatic cancer, screening people at a higher risk and developing highly targeted treatment plans after a diagnosis. If your doctor thinks you need to be screened, experts at the OSUCCC – James use a variety of tests to diagnose pancreatic cancer and determine its stage. Some of these diagnostics are painless, while others are minimally invasive.
Genetic testing for pancreatic cancer
Some people may have an inherited genetic condition that puts them at risk of developing pancreatic cancer. This is often a genetic mutation that elevates someone’s risk of developing tumors. Mutated genetic material (DNA) can be passed from one generation to the next. It’s important to note that an estimated 10% of pancreatic cancer diagnoses are considered hereditary.
Detecting pancreatic cancer in its early stages is difficult; therefore, screening for high-risk people and consulting with your doctor can help.
Diagnosing pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer is difficult to diagnose for a variety of reasons, among them the fact that it doesn’t often show on imaging scans or other tests until it’s in an advanced stage. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often like those of other diseases, making it important to address any unusual symptoms and to understand your individual risk factors. If you think you may have pancreatic cancer, speak to your doctor immediately.
Early detection and BRCA genes
BRCA and BRCA2 are two genes in the human body known to suppress tumors. When there are mutations in these genes, your risk of developing pancreatic cancer increases.
Genetic testing can reveal this mutation, which means it is hereditary, and in turn, your doctor can recommend regular screening for pancreatic cancer. Early detection is critical to treating and curing pancreatic cancer.
Blood and laboratory testing for pancreatic cancer
Your doctor may conduct one or more tests to determine if you have pancreatic cancer:
Blood chemistry analysis
Taking a blood sample allows your doctor to measure substances in your blood; for example, a high amount of blood sugar (glucose) may indicate the presence of a neuroendocrine tumor in the pancreas. Bilirubin is a chemical in the liver that can indicate jaundice, a condition in which the skin and whites of the eyes appear yellow. Jaundice may signal an underlying health condition, one being that pancreatic cancer is impacting your liver’s functionality.
Tumor marker testing
An abnormally high level of certain markers, known as antigens CA 19-9 and CEA, may indicate the presence of pancreatic cancer. Testing can be conducted to identify these markers and help your doctor make a diagnosis. Chromogranin A, a protein marker found in blood plasma, may indicate a functioning neuroendocrine tumor even if your hormone levels are normal.
Diagnostic imaging for pancreatic cancer
Your doctor may recommend one or several imaging exams to determine if you have pancreatic cancer. Some of these may include:
Computed tomography (CT) scan
This imaging scan uses X-rays to provide detailed images of your body, which helps your doctor identify potential areas of concern and screen for pancreatic cancer.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
MRI technology uses a high-powered magnet, combined with radio waves, to produce detailed images of your body. This can help detect a tumor.
Positron emission tomography (PET)
A PET scan uses a small amount of radioactive agent and special imaging camera to identify areas of cancerous activity in the body. Cancerous cells appear brighter in PET images.
Ultrasound
Your oncologist may use an abdominal ultrasound to evaluate organs and other areas inside your abdomen.
Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) procedure
This pancreatic cancer procedure uses X-ray technology to evaluate blood vessels as well as take images of your liver and bile ducts. A stent (small, thin tube) may be inserted and left in place if a blockage is detected; this drains bile into the small intestine or a collection bag outside the body.
Endoscopic ultrasound
Using ultrasound waves, this procedure produces images of the organs and tissues inside your abdomen. Your cancer doctor can also biopsy any tumor(s) found while using the endoscope.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
This pancreatic cancer procedure uses an endoscope to take X-ray images of the pancreatic ducts, showing areas that may be blocked or narrowed due to pancreatic cancer. A stint may be inserted to open the ducts and take samples used for biopsy.
Laparoscopy
Using a thin lighted tube, your surgeon will make a small incision in your abdomen and examine the inside of the abdomen. A monitor is used to guide your surgeon to the pancreas and other organs and they may take samples used for biopsy.
Biopsy
Tissue from pancreatic cancer tumors is analyzed under a microscope to help with diagnosis and determine the staging of your cancer. Tissues for biopsy may also be collected from your pancreas or ducts using a special needle. Most biopsies do not require surgery or anesthesia.
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Pancreatic Cancer Treatment