The early stages of this cancer do not usually produce symptoms, so the disease is generally advanced when it is diagnosed. Its often referred to as a "silent killer". The estimated 5-year prevalence of people in the world living with pancreatic cancer is 4.1 per 100,000. This cancer is almost always fatal.
In order to diagnose Pancreatic Cancer and to determine the staging of Pancreatic Cancer, the following tests are used by medical professional
Blood test: To check on liver and kidney functioning.
Tumor marker: Blood drawn to check levels of CA 19-9. Note: not all pancreatic cancers produce this marker!
Ultrasound: Abdominal ultrasound is required to check pancreas and surrounding organs.
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): This is an ultrasound guided endoscopy (insertion of a thin tube with a camera through the mouth) to check on size, location and spread of the tumor. A Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy can be done at the time too.
CT scan: Helps check for any signs of cancer. Biopsy may also be done under CT guidance.
MRI: Provides detailed images of the pancreas.
ERCP: An endoscopic procedure that can also take X-ray images. With use of a dye, any blockages in the pancreatic duct can be seen & opened with a stent.
MRCP: A specific MRI scan to look at the liver, bile duct, gall bladder and pancreas.
PET Scan: Is used to check on how the cancer is behaving, spreading or if treatment is working.
Laparoscopy: This is a minimal surgical procedure that can aid in diagnosis, check metastasis and is occasionally done before an operation to remove the tumor.
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Sat, 01/06/2018 - 19:25
