Pancreatic Cancer
November 22, 2024
This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Laleh Melstrom, M.D., M.S., associate professor of surgery and immuno-oncology, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope® Cancer Center Duarte
Pancreatic cancer develops when cells in the pancreas begin to grow uncontrollably. There are two types of pancreatic cancer tumors, exocrine and endocrine. Exocrine tumors are more common, while endocrine tumors are rare and make up less than 6% of pancreatic cancers.
The pancreas is small, only about six inches long, but it plays a vital role in the digestive system, producing insulin to help regulate blood sugar levels and aiding in breaking down the foods people eat.
In its early stages, pancreatic cancer does not often have symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may vary based on whether and where the cancer has metastasized (spread). At that point, symptoms may include weakness, fatigue, jaundice and digestive issues.
Most pancreatic cancers are exocrine tumors called adenocarcinomas. Other types include acinar cell carcinoma, intraductal papillary-mucinous neoplasms, neuroendocrine tumors and mucinous cystic neoplasms.
The pancreas is located deep within the body, making it difficult to detect early tumors during a routine physical exam. There are no reliable screening options for pancreatic cancer, so it tends to be diagnosed at later stages when cancer has grown and spread.
Pancreatic cancer treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and goals. Options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy and palliative care.
Our pancreatic cancer research offers our patients access to promising therapies, surgical approaches and other clinical trials to improve survival rates and enhance the quality of life. For example, we are investigating PEGPH20, a drug that may disrupt pancreatic cancer cells' ability to fight off chemotherapy by creating a barrier around tumors.
When you come to City of Hope, you automatically gain access to an unparalleled array of support services to help you and your family cope with each challenge you come across in your pancreatic cancer journey.
Our Pancreatic Cancer Expertise
City of Hope has one of the most experienced pancreatic cancer programs in the United States. For more than a decade, U.S. News & World Report has named City of Hope one of the top cancer hospitals in America.
Our Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Program Highlights:
- Minimally invasive, robotically assisted surgery and procedures, such as ablation and embolization
- Ultra-precise radiation therapy, including helical TomoTherapy
- Unique chemotherapy and targeted therapy regimens
- Targeted drug combinations for greater effectiveness and fewer side effects
- Pioneering drug research and clinical trials
- Palliative treatments to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life
City of Hope is one of the few facilities designated a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute.
Our pioneering clinical trials and drug research, combined with extensive surgical expertise and precision treatments, are recognized nationally.
Our leadership in research and innovation continually enhances our ability to provide novel and differentiated approaches to cancer care.