How Is Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosed?

Each patient is unique with their path to discovery of their pancreatic cancer. Testing differs for patients depending on whether they have testing to look into the cause of symptoms, or sometimes abnormal findings are identified in the pancreas for testing done for other reasons. Once a pancreatic mass is discovered, the patient may undergo testing with a special CT scan to specially take closer look at the pancreas and the surrounding blood vessels and other structures. MRI to look specifically at the pancreas and its ducts may be indicated, and endoscopic ultrasound that allows the tumor to be biopsied, while getting more information on location of the tumor next to blood vessels.

The Role of Our Advance Gastroenterology Team in Diagnosis and Symptom Relief

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can be absent or vague at first, so any symptoms should be brought to the attention of your doctor. When symptoms or testing question the possibility of pancreatic disease, advanced gastroenterology is often the next step toward diagnosis. Relief of certain symptoms, like itching or jaundice, are commonly managed by the gastroenterology team. Advanced gastroenterology has options for the relief of pancreatic pain. The gastroenterology team also offers pancreatitis treatment and ensures pancreatic cancer is not the cause. From Erlanger Radiology providing state-of-the-art pancreatic imaging to the region’s most contemporary trained advanced GI specialist and our robust interventional radiology team, diagnostic and early interventions lead to a plan for therapeutic options.

See our FAQ for a list of possible diagnostic tests patients may undergo for pancreatic cancer