Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive form of cancer that develops in the organ that regulates digestive enzymes and blood sugar

At the Cancer Center at UM Capital Region Health in Largo, state-of-the-art imaging technologies — including high-resolution CT, MRI and endoscopic ultrasound — allow us to detect and stage pancreatic cancer with great precision. 

We can analyze the make-up of the cancer cells at the molecular level and use biomarker testing, which examines specific proteins and genes, to form personalized treatment plans aimed at the best possible outcomes.

Our pancreatic tumor board — which brings together surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists, pathologists and supportive care specialists — reviews every pancreatic cancer case. Together, they develop a treatment plan to fit your unique needs. 

Meet Our Pancreatic Cancer Care Team

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

• Pain in the abdomen or back
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea or vomiting
• Bloating after eating small amounts of food
• Changes in stool or dark-colored urine
• Recent-onset diabetes

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Our team determines the cancer stage by assessing the tumor size and whether it has spread. They use procedures like:

• CT scan provides high-resolution imaging of the cancer.
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a procedure in which a small camera (endoscope) shows the tumor in detail and allows doctors to check nearby blood vessels. They can also take a sample (biopsy) to confirm the cancer and check for spread to lymph nodes.
• ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) uses an endoscope and X-ray to relieve blockages to the flow of bile, which causes jaundice. Doctors can also take a biopsy during this procedure.

Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreas Surgery

For some pancreatic tumors, our surgical oncologists perform complex procedures, such as the Whipple procedure or pancreas removal using minimally invasive techniques. Our advanced surgical navigation systems and 3D imaging enable precise surgical planning.

Chemotherapy

Our medical oncology team offers combinations of chemotherapy medications that kill pancreatic cancer cells in different ways. Gemcitabine-based chemotherapy combinations, delivered through IV, slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation oncology uses stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for precise tumor targeting while sparing healthy cell tissue.

Supportive Care

We provide support to our patients by offering both physical and psychosocial assistance. Our survivorship program addresses long-term needs and helps monitor for post-treatment effects.

Our Pancreatic Cancer Care Team

Contact Us

To learn more about pancreatic cancer services available at our location, schedule an appointment, or make a referral, call us at 240-677-8300.