Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer
To diagnose pancreatic cancer your doctor may have blood or other lab tests ordered. Learn more about some other tests that may be used.
Pancreatic Cancer
There are two main types of pancreatic cancer.
Most often, pancreatic cancer starts in the ducts that carry pancreatic juices. This type is called exocrine pancreatic cancer. This information will focus on this type of pancreatic cancer.
Much less often, pancreatic cancer begins in the cells that make hormones. This type may be called endocrine pancreatic cancer or islet cell cancer.
Each year in the United States, more than 43,000 people are diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas. Most are over 65 years old.
Pancreatic Cancer Stages
If cancer of the pancreas is diagnosed, your doctor needs to learn the extent (stage) of the disease to help you choose the best treatment.
Treatment Types for Pancreatic Cancer
Treatment options for people with pancreatic cancer are surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy.
