CANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES. Pancreatic Cancer.
|
|
- Damon Holt
- 8 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 CANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES Treatment Update Pancreatic Cancer
2 The CancerCare Connect Booklet Series offers up-to-date, easy-to-read information on the latest treatments, managing side effects and coping with cancer. To order free copies of this booklet, please use the online order form on our website, Founded in 1944, CancerCare is the leading national organization providing free, professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer. Our comprehensive services include counseling and support groups over the phone, online and in person, educational workshops, publications and financial and co-payment assistance. All CancerCare services are provided by oncology social workers and world-leading cancer experts. CancerCare relies on the generosity of supporters to provide our services completely free of charge to anyone facing a cancer diagnosis. If you have found this resource helpful and wish to donate, please do so online at You may also mail a check, payable to CancerCare, to CancerCare, Attn: Donations, 275 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY Thank you. CancerCare National Office 275 Seventh Avenue New York, NY Toll-free HOPE (4673) Phone Fax info@cancercare.org Web The content of this booklet is independent, non-promotional and free of commercial influence and bias.
3 Treatment Update Pancreatic Cancer Table of Contents Introduction 2 Treatment Options 3 The Importance of Clinical Trials 8 Managing Side Effects 9 Discussing Pain With Your Health Care Team 10 About Pancreatic Enzymes 13 Your Support Team 14 Frequently Asked Questions 15 Resources 17 Editor Eileen M. O Reilly, MD Associate Director for Clinical Research, David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, and Attending Physician and Member, Gastrointestinal Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Associate Professor of Medicine, Weill Medical College of Cornell University 2015 CancerCare. All rights reserved. 9/15 All people depicted in the photographs in this booklet are models, used for illustrative purposes only.
4 Recent progress in understanding the biology of pancreatic cancer is opening new windows of opportunity for treating it. The number of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer is increasing as our population grows older. Nearly 50,000 people in North America will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year. Most people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer are over age 60. Members of families with a history of breast, ovarian, prostate and endometrial cancer may be more prone to develop pancreatic cancer. The pancreas is a tadpole-shaped, six-inch-long gland that lies behind the stomach. It helps the digestive system break down and absorb fats and proteins in foods. The pancreas also produces essential hormones such as insulin, which controls blood sugar. Pancreatic cancer begins when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow out of control and form a tumor. More than 95 percent of pancreatic cancers are exocrine tumors. These tumors start in the exocrine cells that make pancreatic enzymes that help in digestion. Neuroendocrine or islet-cell tumors account for less than 5 percent of all pancreatic cancers. They affect the hormone-producing cells in the pancreas and tend to grow more slowly than exocrine tumors. 2
5 Treatment Options After you have been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, your health care team will discuss with you the best way to proceed with your treatment. Factors that will influence the choice of treatment include the size of the tumor, its location, how quickly it is growing, whether it has spread to other parts of the body and your overall health. Researchers have identified four different types of gene mutations (changes) in the majority of people with pancreatic cancer. This finding has been of great value in discovering new ways to treat pancreatic cancer. Surgery Treatment for pancreatic cancer is based on whether or not the cancer is confined to the pancreas, involves major blood vessels or has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the CANCERCARE CONNECT TREATMENT UPDATE: PANCREATIC CANCER 3
6 body. If the tumor has spread beyond the pancreas, then treatments other than surgery are used. Fifteen percent to 20 percent of people who are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer located in the head of the pancreas may be candidates for a Whipple procedure. This is a type of reconstructive surgery involving removal of parts of the pancreas, gall bladder, bile duct and small bowel. A portion of the pancreas is left in place to produce digestive juices and insulin. Some patients may require a total pancreatectomy, which removes the entire pancreas, part of the stomach and small intestine, the bile duct, gallbladder, spleen and nearby lymph nodes. If surgery is required, patients should select a skilled surgeon who is well-experienced in operating on pancreatic cancer and who has a dedicated hospital support team. Studies show that patients who undergo pancreatic surgery performed by a skillful surgeon in a well-experienced clinical setting have the best outcomes. Palliative Surgery Palliative surgery and other interventions are performed to relieve symptoms such as jaundice and blockage of the stomach or duodenum (the upper part of the small intestine). The most common types of palliative surgery for pancreatic cancer are biliary bypass surgery, duodenal bypass surgery and bile duct or duodenal stent insertion. Biliary bypass surgery reroutes the flow of bile blocked by a tumor in the bile duct. (The bile duct is a tube that carries bile from the gallbladder to the duodenum.) A gastrojejunostomy (or duodenal bypass surgery) may be performed if the tumor blocks the duodenum. A gastrojejunostomy allows food to 4
7 pass from the stomach directly into the small bowel. Biliary stenting is a procedure done to open a blocked bile duct by inserting a small metal or plastic tube (stent) to keep the bile duct open. Radiation Radiation can prevent pancreatic tumors from growing and sometimes shrinks them. Since radiation is directed to a specific (focused) area, it is considered a local treatment. Several different types of radiation are used in patients with pancreatic cancer, including standard external beam radiation and two variations of it: intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Standard external beam radiation delivers radiation by using a machine outside the body that directs a beam of radiation through the skin to the tumor. IMRT is a type of external beam radiation therapy that delivers focused radiation to the CANCERCARE CONNECT TREATMENT UPDATE: PANCREATIC CANCER 5
8 tumor by varying the intensity of the radiation beam under precise computer control. SBRT is another type of external beam radiation therapy that delivers high doses of radiation precisely to small tumors, usually in five or fewer treatments. The side effects of radiation can build up over time. The most common effects of radiation for pancreatic cancer are loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea and fatigue. Radiation may be given in combination with chemotherapy. The three drugs most often used with radiation are fluorouracil, capecitabine (Xeloda and others) and gemcitabine (Gemzar and others). Chemotherapy For many years, gemcitabine has been a standard of care for inoperable pancreatic cancer. Gemcitabine currently is 6
9 approved for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic unresectable (inoperable) pancreatic cancer. It can shrink the cancer, ease symptoms and help patients live longer with a better quality of life. Research has shown that gemcitabine also is beneficial after surgery for pancreatic cancer. Several other chemotherapy drugs are used for the treatment of pancreatic cancer: albumin-bound paclitaxel (Abraxane), fluorouracil (5-FU), oxaliplatin (Eloxatin and others) and irinotecan (Camptosar and others). Albumin-bound paclitaxel is approved in combination with gemcitabine as first-line treatment for metastatic pancreatic cancer. In addition to the four approved drugs, FOLFIRINOX, a combination of 5-FU, leucovorin, irinotecan and oxaliplatin, often is used in the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer. Targeted Treatments Targeted treatments are designed to specifically interfere with cell mechanisms that tumors use to grow and spread, largely bypassing normal, healthy tissues and organs. Currently, erlotinib (Tarceva) is the only approved targeted treatment for locally advanced, inoperable or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma, the most common type of pancreatic cancer. It is usually given in combination with gemcitabine. Two other targeted treatments, sunitinib (Sutent and others) and everolimus (Afinitor), are approved for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. On the horizon are several promising new treatment approaches for patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer: MM-398, a form of irinotecan that has been modified to improve its cancer-fighting properties; CANCERCARE CONNECT TREATMENT UPDATE: PANCREATIC CANCER 7
10 The Importance of Clinical Trials Clinical trials are the standard by which we measure the worth of new treatments and the quality of life of patients as they receive those treatments. For this reason, doctors and researchers urge people with cancer to take part in clinical trials. Your doctor can guide you in making a decision about whether a clinical trial is right for you. Here are a few things that you should know: Often, people who take part in clinical trials gain access to and benefit from new treatments. Before you participate in a clinical trial, you will be fully informed as to the risks and benefits of the trial. Most clinical trials are designed to test a new treatment against a standard treatment to find out whether the new treatment has any added benefit. You can stop taking part in a clinical trial at any time for any reason. A combination of two different vaccines (GVAX and CRS- 207) designed to stimulate the body s immune defense system to seek out and destroy pancreatic cancer cells; PEGPH20, an enzyme that dissolves the protective halo around pancreatic cancer cells and improves the access of chemotherapy drugs to them; and The addition of various targeted treatments with novel mechanisms of action to FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine and albumin-bound paclitaxel. 8
11 Managing Side Effects There are many ways that your health care team can manage the side effects of pancreatic cancer or its treatment. Pain Pain can occur if the tumor presses on nerves or other organs near the pancreas. Doctors manage your pain according to how severe it is. For mild pain, they may prescribe an overthe-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin and others) or acetaminophen (Tylenol and others). For moderate pain, they may prescribe a mild opioid such as tramadol (Ultram and others) or hydrocodone, which often is combined with acetaminophen. For more severe pain, they may prescribe a strong opioid such as morphine or hydromorphone. CANCERCARE CONNECT TREATMENT UPDATE: PANCREATIC CANCER 9
12 Discussing Pain With Your Health Care Team The more detail you can give your health care team about the kind of pain and how much pain you feel, the better they will be able to treat it. Here are some tips that can help: Keep a diary with notes about how your pain affects you. That way, you don t have to rely on memory to give your health care team accurate information. Every time you meet with your health care team, discuss whether or not you are experiencing pain. It is part of your vital signs (just like blood pressure and heart rate), and it should be checked. Use a scale of 0 (no pain) to 10 (very bad pain) to rate your pain. This is a good way to measure pain and find out how well your medication is working to relieve it. Tell your health care team whether anything makes the pain worse. For example, does standing, sitting or getting up from a seated position make it hurt more? Talk about whether anything relieves the pain. For instance, do you feel better if you apply ice or a heated compress to the area or when you lie down or walk around? Let your health care team know how much relief you are getting from pain medicines or other methods you use. Does your pain medicine provide you with enough relief? Does it wear off before it s time for your next dose? Are you having any unpleasant side effects from using it? 10
13 Opioid medications for treating pain may cause side effects such as constipation, sleepiness or nausea. Constipation, in particular, can be managed by taking a laxative, stool softener or fiber supplement such as flaxseed. Pain care specialists can perform a variety of nerve blocks to alleviate back or abdominal pain and reduce the need for opioids. A celiac plexus nerve block is a procedure in which the celiac plexus (a group of nerves near the pancreas) is numbed with medication injected through a needle. The pain relief following a celiac block may last several months and may allow a reduction in the use of opioid pain medications. If pain comes from the pancreatic tumor itself or from tumors that have spread to the bone, radiation may be an option. For some people, relaxation exercises and mind/body techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, also may help manage the pain. Some cancer treatment centers have programs to teach people with cancer and their caregivers the basics of these techniques. The professional oncology social workers at CancerCare can help you learn these techniques as well. CANCERCARE CONNECT TREATMENT UPDATE: PANCREATIC CANCER 11
14 Pain is treatable, and getting help for it can greatly improve your quality of life. People who are pain-free eat better, sleep better and cope with chemotherapy better than those who have severe pain. Jaundice Jaundice is common in people with pancreatic cancer that begins in the head of the pancreas. It is caused by blockage of the bile duct, a small tube that carries bile from the liver and gallbladder to the upper part of the small intestine. Symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea, itching and yellowing of the skin and eyes. Jaundice often is treated with the use of a stent, a tube that is inserted into the bile duct to allow for proper drainage. In patients in which placement of a stent is not possible, external biliary drainage (a tube that goes into the liver and drains outside to a drainage bag) may be necessary. If you have fever, chills, abdominal pain or any return of jaundice after getting a stent, let your health care team know right away. These symptoms can be signs of an infection or a problem with the stent. 12
15 About Pancreatic Enzymes A healthy pancreas secretes a number of substances called enzymes that help with digestion. When a person has pancreatic cancer, the cancer or the treatments for it (including surgery) may affect the ability of the pancreas to secrete needed enzymes. Prescription pancreatic enzymes are available. Everyone needs a different amount of pancreatic enzymes to help with digestion, and pancreatic enzymes vary from brand to brand. If you have been prescribed pancreatic enzymes, it may take some time to find the brand and dose that work best for you. If you experience any of the following symptoms, talk with your health care team: Indigestion or cramping after meals; Frequent or loose stools or diarrhea; Floating or light-colored stools; Greasy or fatty stools; Foul-smelling gas or stools; or Unexplained weight loss. Pancreatic Insufficiency Pancreatic insufficiency is when your pancreas doesn t make enough of the enzymes that your body needs to break down foods in the stomach and intestines. Symptoms include weight loss, stomach pain, bloating, gas and fatty stools. Taking prescription pancreatic enzymes by mouth and a change in diet can reduce the side effects seen with pancreatic insufficiency. CANCERCARE CONNECT TREATMENT UPDATE: PANCREATIC CANCER 13
16 Your Support Team When you are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, you re faced with a series of choices that will have a major effect on your life. Your health care team, family members and friends will likely be an invaluable source of support at this time. You can also turn to these resources: Oncology social workers provide emotional support for people with cancer and their loved ones. These professionals can help you cope with the challenges of a cancer diagnosis and guide you to resources. CancerCare offers free counseling from professional oncology social workers who understand the challenges faced by people with cancer and their caregivers. CancerCare s professional oncology social workers can work with you one-on-one to develop strategies for coping with treatment and its side effects. Oncology social workers also can help you communicate with your doctor and other members of your medical care team about the health care issues that are important to you. Support groups provide a caring environment in which you can share your concerns with others in similar circumstances. Support group members come together to help one another, providing insights and suggestions on ways to cope. At CancerCare, people with pancreatic cancer and their families can participate in support groups in person, online or on the telephone. Financial help is offered by a number of organizations to assist with cancer-related expenses such as transportation to treatment, child care or home care. To learn more about how CancerCare helps, call us at HOPE (4673) or visit
17 Q. More about pancreatic cancer Frequently Asked Questions When should a person diagnosed with pancreatic cancer seek a second opinion? Is getting a second opinion wise? A. It makes sense to seek a consultation from a major cancer center or a group of physicians who are experts in managing pancreatic cancer at the time of diagnosis. That s when there is the most discussion as to what would be the best course of treatment for a particular patient. For example, say a person has a localized pancreatic tumor and there s a question as to whether or not it is operable or whether preoperative treatment should be given beforehand CANCERCARE CONNECT TREATMENT UPDATE: PANCREATIC CANCER 15
18 to shrink the tumor. Input from an expert cancer center can be helpful in guiding management in these situations. Another good time to seek a second opinion is when a person with metastatic pancreatic cancer is not responding to treatment, and the question is what might be the best next step. Should another standard treatment be considered or is this the right time for that patient to participate in a clinical trial and, if so, what would be the best trial for him or her? Getting a second opinion doesn t mean treading on the toes of the primary physician who s coordinating this person s care, but a second opinion in these cases can augment and extend the care given. Q. A. How can I tell if I need to increase the dose of pancreatic enzymes I m taking? If you are still experiencing symptoms such as bloating, discomfort after eating and foul-smelling stools after taking a recommended dose of pancreatic enzymes, you should first check with your health care team. They may recommend that you take a larger dose to see if that helps to minimize the symptoms. Changing brands might help too. Q. Last year a three-centimeter IPMN (intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm) was removed from the tail of my pancreas. Will I eventually have to have my pancreas removed? A. IPMN is a precancerous condition in the pancreas. However, the actual risk of developing cancer from IPMN is quite low, particularly if the IPMN is not in the main pancreatic duct. Once you have an IPMN removed, you will usually undergo yearly monitoring with ultrasound or an MRI. 16
19 Resources CancerCare HOPE (4673) American Cancer Society Cancer.Net Cancer Support Community National Cancer Institute National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship National Comprehensive Cancer Network Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research The Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Action Network CLINICAL TRIALS WEBSITES Coalition of Cancer Cooperative groups EmergingMed National Cancer Institute This booklet was made possible by Astellas US, LLC and Celgene Corporation and was supported by a grant from Genentech. CANCERCARE CONNECT TREATMENT UPDATE: PANCREATIC CANCER 17
20 for Help and Hope, visit or call: HOPE (4673)
Pancreatic Cancer Understanding your diagnosis
Pancreatic Cancer Understanding your diagnosis Let s Make Cancer History 1 888 939-3333 cancer.ca Pancreatic Cancer Understanding your diagnosis When you first hear that you have cancer you may feel alone
More informationUnderstanding. Pancreatic Cancer
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer Understanding Pancreatic Cancer The Pancreas The pancreas is an organ that is about 6 inches long. It s located deep in your belly between your stomach and backbone. Your
More informationCancercare Connect Booklet Series. Renal Cell Cancer. www.cancercare.org
Cancercare Connect Booklet Series Treatment Update Renal Cell Cancer www.cancercare.org Treatment Update Renal Cell Cancer Table of Contents The CancerCare Connect Booklet Series offers up-to-date, easy-to-read
More informationCANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES. Lung Cancer. www.cancercare.org
CANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES Treatment Update Lung Cancer www.cancercare.org The CancerCare Connect Booklet Series offers up-to-date, easy-to-read information on the latest treatments, managing side
More informationBile Duct Diseases and Problems
Bile Duct Diseases and Problems Introduction A bile duct is a tube that carries bile between the liver and gallbladder and the intestine. Bile is a substance made by the liver that helps with digestion.
More informationSurgery and cancer of the pancreas
Surgery and cancer of the pancreas This information is an extract from the booklet Understanding cancer of the pancreas. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free copy see page 8. Introduction
More informationPancreatic Cancer Information for patients and their families
Pancreatic Cancer Information for patients and their families This handout answers common questions that are often asked by our patients and families. The information in this booklet is what we talked
More informationCEU Update. Pancreatic Cancer
CEU Update A semi-annual publication of the National Association for Health Professionals June 2015 Issue #0615 Pancreatic Cancer The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. (PanCAN), established in 1999,
More informationPancreatic cancer An overview of diagnosis and treatment
Pancreatic cancer An overview of diagnosis and treatment Introduction This booklet is for anyone who has recently been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Partners, family members and friends may also find
More informationPATIENT INFORMATION ABOUT ADJUVANT THERAPY AFTER THE WHIPPLE OPERATION FOR ADENOCARCINOMA ( CANCER ) OF THE PANCREAS AND RELATED SITES.
PATIENT INFORMATION ABOUT ADJUVANT THERAPY AFTER THE WHIPPLE OPERATION FOR ADENOCARCINOMA ( CANCER ) OF THE PANCREAS AND RELATED SITES. Radiation Oncology Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins Last
More informationSurgery and other procedures to control symptoms
Surgery and other procedures to control symptoms This fact sheet is for people diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer who will be having surgery or another interventional procedure to relieve symptoms
More informationGallbladder Diseases and Problems
Gallbladder Diseases and Problems Introduction Your gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ under your liver. It stores bile, a fluid made by your liver to digest fat. There are many diseases and problems that
More informationA Patient s Guide to. Pancreatic Cancer
A Patient s Guide to Pancreatic Cancer Staff of the Comprehensive Cancer Center s Multidisciplinary Pancreatic Cancer Program provided information for this handbook GI Oncology Program, Patient Education
More informationVersion 1.2012. Also available at NCCN.com. Pancreatic Cancer. NCCN Guidelines for Patients. Dedicated to the memory of Randy Pausch
Pancreatic Cancer NCCN Guidelines for Patients Dedicated to the memory of Randy Pausch Also available at NCCN.com About this booklet Its purpose Learning that you have cancer can be overwhelming. The goal
More informationWhipple Procedure: A guide for patients and families UHN
Whipple Procedure: A guide for patients and families UHN Please visit the UHN Patient Education website for more health information: www.uhnpatienteducation.ca 2014 University Health Network. All rights
More informationClinical Trials: Improving the Care of People Living With Cancer
CLINICAL TRIALS Clinical Trials: Improving the Care of People Living With Cancer Presented by Mary McCabe, RN, MA Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Carolyn Messner, DSW CancerCare Learn about: Stages
More informationOxford University Hospitals
Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery About Pancreatic Surgery A guide for patients and relatives Introduction This booklet has been written to provide
More informationProgress in the Treatment of Kidney Cancer
KIDNEY CANCER Progress in the Treatment of Kidney Cancer Presented by Ronald M. Bukowski, MD The Cleveland Clinic Foundation Keith Lyons, MSW CancerCare Find out about: Current treatment options New advances
More informationSecondary liver cancer Patient Information Booklet
Secondary liver cancer Patient Information Booklet Delivering the best in care UHB is a no smoking Trust To see all of our current patient information leaflets please visit www.uhb.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflets.htm
More informationRadiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer
Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer Introduction Cancer of the prostate is the most common form of cancer that affects men. About 240,000 American men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year. Your
More informationColon and Rectal Cancer
Colon and Rectal Cancer What is colon or rectal cancer? Colon or rectal cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in your large intestine, which is also called the large bowel. The colon is the last 5 feet
More informationPancreatic Cancer Treatment Options
Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Options Everything you need to know to create a more confident cancer journey. Brought to you by PearlPoint Cancer Support Download at MyPearlPoint.org 2014 PearlPoint Cancer
More informationSmoking and misuse of certain pain medicines can affect the risk of developing renal cell cancer.
Renal cell cancer Renal cell cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in tubules of the kidney. Renal cell cancer (also called kidney cancer or renal adenocarcinoma) is a disease in which
More informationBreast Cancer. CSC Cancer Experience Registry Member, breast cancer
ESSENTIALS Breast Cancer Take things one step at a time. Try not to be overwhelmed by the tidal wave of technical information coming your way. Finally you know your body best; you have to be your own advocate.
More informationA Patient s Guide to. Pancreatic Cysts. University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center
A Patient s Guide to Pancreatic Cysts University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center Staff of the Comprehensive Cancer Center s Multidisciplinary Pancreatic Cancer Program provided information for
More informationMesothelioma. 1995-2013, The Patient Education Institute, Inc. www.x-plain.com ocft0101 Last reviewed: 03/21/2013 1
Mesothelioma Introduction Mesothelioma is a type of cancer. It starts in the tissue that lines your lungs, stomach, heart, and other organs. This tissue is called mesothelium. Most people who get this
More informationControlling Pain Part 2: Types of Pain Medicines for Your Prostate Cancer
Controlling Pain Part 2: Types of Pain Medicines for Your Prostate Cancer The following information is based on the general experiences of many prostate cancer patients. Your experience may be different.
More informationMultiple Myeloma. This reference summary will help you understand multiple myeloma and its treatment options.
Multiple Myeloma Introduction Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects white blood cells. Each year, thousands of people find out that they have multiple myeloma. This reference summary will help
More informationCANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES. Kidney Cancer. www.cancercare.org
CANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES Treatment Update Kidney Cancer www.cancercare.org The CancerCare Connect Booklet Series offers up-to-date, easy-to-read information on the latest treatments, managing
More informationSOD (Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction)
SOD (Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction) SOD refers to the mechanical malfunctioning of the Sphincter of Oddi, which is the valve muscle that regulates the flow of bile and pancreatic juice into the duodenum.
More informationWhat you need to know. JAMES L. ABBRUZZESE, MD Chairman, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
Myths & Facts about pancreatic cancer What you need to know JAMES L. ABBRUZZESE, MD Chairman, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center BEN EBRAHIMI, MD Fellow,
More informationThymus Cancer. This reference summary will help you better understand what thymus cancer is and what treatment options are available.
Thymus Cancer Introduction Thymus cancer is a rare cancer. It starts in the small organ that lies in the upper chest under the breastbone. The thymus makes white blood cells that protect the body against
More informationThe Patient s Guide. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple) Surgery. Where life shines bright.
Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple) Surgery The Patient s Guide Where life shines bright. SM Methodist Dallas Medical Center 1441 N. Beckley Ave. Dallas, TX 75203 214-947-8181 MethodistHealthSystem.org Find
More informationFrequently Asked Questions About Ovarian Cancer
Media Contact: Gerri Gomez Howard Cell: 303-748-3933 gerri@gomezhowardgroup.com Frequently Asked Questions About Ovarian Cancer What is ovarian cancer? Ovarian cancer is a cancer that forms in tissues
More informationProcedure Information Guide
Procedure Information Guide Surgery to remove the pancreas (whipple's procedure) Brought to you in association with EIDO and endorsed by the The Royal College of Surgeons of England Discovery has made
More informationCANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES. Lung Cancer. www.cancercare.org
CANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES Treatment Update Lung Cancer www.cancercare.org The CancerCare Connect Booklet Series offers up-to-date, easy-to-read information on the latest treatments, managing side
More informationTheraSphere A Radiation Treatment Option for Liver Cancer
TheraSphere A Radiation Treatment Option for Liver Cancer TheraSphere is a treatment which is done in the Interventional Radiology Clinic. If you have more questions after reading this handout, you can
More informationWhat to Expect While Receiving Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer
What to Expect While Receiving Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer Princess Margaret Information for patients who are having radiation therapy Read this pamphlet to learn about: The main steps in planning
More informationDrug treatments for kidney cancer
James Whale Fund for Kidney Cancer Drug treatments for kidney cancer Before your doctors can discuss treatment options with you they need to know how far your cancer has progressed. Staging is used to
More informationWHEN PROSTATE CANCER RETURNS: ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER. How Will I Know If My Prostate Cancer Returns?
WHEN PROSTATE CANCER RETURNS: ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER (The following information is based on the general experiences of many prostate cancer patients. Your experience may be different.) How Will I Know
More informationGuide to Understanding Breast Cancer
An estimated 220,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, and one in eight will be diagnosed during their lifetime. While breast cancer is a serious disease, most patients
More informationMetastatic Melanoma What You Need to Know
ESSENTIALS Metastatic Melanoma Metastatic Melanoma What You Need to Know If you have metastatic melanoma, you may feel as though your life has been turned upside down. It s a serious disease, but patients
More informationCholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer) Patient Information Booklet
Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer) Patient Information Booklet Delivering the best in care UHB is a no smoking Trust To see all of our current patient information leaflets please visit www.uhb.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflets.htm
More informationYour Immune System & Lung Cancer Treatment
Your Immune System & Lung Cancer Treatment Immunotherapy and Lung Cancer Immunotherapy is quickly developing as an important approach to treating many forms of cancer, including lung cancer. Immunotherapy
More informationSecondary Liver Cancer Information for patients with bowel cancer which has spread to the liver
Secondary Liver Cancer Information for patients with bowel cancer which has spread to the liver Patient Information Introduction This booklet contains information about secondary liver cancer. It is written
More informationMETASTASES TO THE BONE
RADIATION THERAPY FOR METASTASES TO THE BONE Facts to Help Patients Make an Informed Decision TARGETING CANCER CARE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR RADIATION ONCOLOGY WHAT ARE BONE METASTASES? Cancer that starts
More informationTreating Oesophageal Cancer A Quick Guide
Treating Oesophageal Cancer A Quick Guide Contents This is a brief summary of the information on Treating from our website. You will find more detailed information on the website. In this information there
More informationYTTRIUM 90 MICROSPHERES THERAPY OF LIVER TUMORS
YTTRIUM 90 MICROSPHERES THERAPY OF LIVER TUMORS The information regarding placement of Yttrium 90 microsphres for the management of liver tumors on the next several pages includes questions commonly asked
More informationColorectal Cancer Treatment
Scan for mobile link. Colorectal Cancer Treatment Colorectal cancer overview Colorectal cancer, also called large bowel cancer, is the term used to describe malignant tumors found in the colon and rectum.
More informationInova. Breast Care Institute
Inova Breast Care Institute At the Inova Breast Care Institute, our commitment is to provide expert care for you, every step of the way. Our multidisciplinary team of more than 80 experts provides a full
More informationCryosurgery in Cancer Treatment: Questions and Answers. Key Points
CANCER FACTS N a t i o n a l C a n c e r I n s t i t u t e N a t i o n a l I n s t i t u t e s o f H e a l t h D e p a r t m e n t o f H e a l t h a n d H u m a n S e r v i c e s Cryosurgery in Cancer
More informationChemotherapy for pancreatic
Chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer 1 Chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer This information is from the booklet Understanding pancreatic cancer. You may find the full booklet helpful. We can send you a free
More informationWhat will the doctor do?
Information about Pancreatic Cancer www.corecharity.org.uk What are the symptoms? What are the causes? Pancreatic Cancer explained When should I consult a doctor? What will the doctor do? How should I
More informationHow To Understand How Cancer Works
Mesothelioma Understanding your diagnosis Mesothelioma Understanding your diagnosis When you first hear that you have cancer, you may feel alone and afraid. You may be overwhelmed by the large amount of
More informationManaging. Cancer Pain CANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES. www.cancercare.org
CANCERCARE CONNECT BOOKLET SERIES Managing Cancer Pain www.cancercare.org The CancerCare Connect Booklet Series offers up-to-date, easy-to-read information on the latest treatments, managing side effects
More informationQuestions and answers on breast cancer Guideline 10: The management of persistent pain after breast cancer treatment
Questions and answers on breast cancer Guideline 10: The management of persistent pain after breast cancer treatment I ve had breast cancer treatment, and now I m having pain. Does this mean the cancer
More informationENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND (EUS)
ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND (EUS) What you need to know before your procedure Your Doctor has decided that an EUS is necessary for further evaluation and treatment of your condition. This information sheet has
More informationThe Whipple Procedure. Sally Hodges, Ph.D.(c) Given the length and difficulty of the procedure, regardless of the diagnosis, certain
The Whipple Procedure Sally Hodges, Ph.D.(c) Preoperative procedures Given the length and difficulty of the procedure, regardless of the diagnosis, certain assurances must occur prior to offering a patient
More informationChildren s Cancer Pain Can Be Relieved A Guide for Parents and Families
Children s Cancer Pain Can Be Relieved A Guide for Parents and Families This booklet is dedicated to Shaney Banks and all other children with cancer. Wisconsin Cancer Pain Initiative 1989 This booklet
More informationUnderstanding Pleural Mesothelioma
Understanding Pleural Mesothelioma UHN Information for patients and families Read this booklet to learn about: What is pleural mesothelioma? What causes it? What are the symptoms? What tests are done to
More informationIntroduction Breast cancer is cancer that starts in the cells of the breast. Breast cancer happens mainly in women. But men can get it too.
Male Breast Cancer Introduction Breast cancer is cancer that starts in the cells of the breast. Breast cancer happens mainly in women. But men can get it too. Many people do not know that men can get breast
More informationThe Patient s Guide. Distal Pancreatectomy with Splenectomy Surgery. Where life shines bright.
Distal Pancreatectomy with Splenectomy Surgery The Patient s Guide Where life shines bright. SM Methodist Dallas Medical Center 1441 N. Beckley Ave. Dallas, TX 75203 214-947-8181 MethodistHealthSystem.org
More informationLung cancer (non-small-cell)
Patient information from the BMJ Group Lung cancer (non-small-cell) It can be devastating to find out that you or someone close to you has lung cancer. You will have to make some important decisions about
More informationA Patient s Guide to PAIN MANAGEMENT. After Surgery
A Patient s Guide to PAIN MANAGEMENT After Surgery C o m p a s s i o n a n d C o m m i t m e n t A Patient s Guide to Pain Management After Surgery If you re facing an upcoming surgery, it s natural to
More informationYttrium-90 Radiotherapy Treatment for liver tumors
Patient Education Yttrium-90 Radiotherapy Treatment for liver tumors This handout explains what Yttrium-90 radiotherapy is and what to expect when you have it done. Why do I need this treatment? Your doctors
More informationMultiple Myeloma Understanding your diagnosis
Multiple Myeloma Understanding your diagnosis Multiple Myeloma Understanding your diagnosis When you first hear that you have cancer you may feel alone and afraid. You may be overwhelmed by the large amount
More informationIntraperitoneal Chemotherapy
Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy What is Intraperitoneal (IP) Chemotherapy? Intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy is a way to put some of your chemotherapy into your abdomen (also called the peritoneal cavity)
More informationFacing Pancreatic Surgery? Learn about minimally invasive da Vinci Surgery
Facing Pancreatic Surgery? Learn about minimally invasive da Vinci Surgery The Condition: Pancreatitis/Pancreatic Cancer The pancreas is an organ that produces enzymes and hormones to help your body digest
More informationPresenting the SUTENT Patient Call Center.
Presenting the SUTENT Patient Call Center. Please see patient Medication Guide and full prescribing information attached. We re here to support you. Dealing with cancer is a journey. Along the way, you
More informationAugust Is Palliative Care and Cancer Pain Awareness Month
August Is Palliative Care and Cancer Pain Awareness Month What Is Palliative Care? Palliative care is a growing research area that focuses on improving the quality of life of all people living with cancer,
More informationA Brief Guide to Pancreatic Cancer
A Brief Guide to Pancreatic Cancer Contributing authors; Dr. Michele Molinari MD Dr. Mark Walsh MD Dr. Ian Beauprie MD Dr. Daniel Rayson MD Elizabeth Reid P.Dt Sarah De Coutere, RN Craig s Cause Pancreatic
More informationChemoembolization for Patients with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours
Chemoembolization for Patients with Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours What is this cancer? Pancreatic Endocrine Tumours are also called Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours. This cancer is rare and it starts
More informationLIVER CANCER AND TUMOURS
LIVER CANCER AND TUMOURS LIVER CANCER AND TUMOURS Healthy Liver Cirrhotic Liver Tumour What causes liver cancer? Many factors may play a role in the development of cancer. Because the liver filters blood
More informationTreating Localized Prostate Cancer A Review of the Research for Adults
Treating Localized Prostate Cancer A Review of the Research for Adults Is this information right for me? Yes, this information is right for you if: Your doctor * said all tests show you have localized
More informationFor Yourself and Loved Ones. A Colorectal Cancer Kit from NFCR
For Yourself and Loved Ones A Colorectal Cancer Kit from NFCR ABOUT THE NFCR COLORECTAL CANCER PREVENTION AND DETECTION KIT Colorectal cancer, also called colon cancer or large bowel cancer, includes cancerous
More informationColon Cancer Surgery and Recovery. A Guide for Patients and Families
Colon Cancer Surgery and Recovery A Guide for Patients and Families This Booklet You are receiving this booklet because you will be having surgery shortly. This booklet tells you what to do before, during,
More informationLiver Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) Cancer treatment
Patient Education Liver Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE) Cancer treatment This handout explains what liver transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is and what to expect with this cancer treatment.
More informationPain Handbook for Cancer Patients. A Guide for Management of Pain and Side Effects
Pain Handbook for Cancer Patients A Guide for Management of Pain and Side Effects Relief of Pain Is Important There is no benefit from suffering with pain. Pain can actually be harmful to you. It can:
More informationGYNECOLOGIC CANCERS Facts to Help Patients Make an Informed Decision
RADIATION THERAPY FOR GYNECOLOGIC CANCERS Facts to Help Patients Make an Informed Decision TARGETING CANCER CARE AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR RADIATION ONCOLOGY FACTS ABOUT GYNECOLOGIC CANCERS Gynecologic cancers
More informationPancreatic Cancer Overview
Pancreatic Cancer Overview This overview is based on the more detailed information in our document Pancreatic Cancer. What is pancreatic cancer? To understand pancreatic cancer, it helps to know about
More informationDoris A. Howell Service: A Palliative Care Consult Service at UCSD, La Jolla. Heather Herman, RN, MS, NP Nurse Practitioner
Doris A. Howell Service: A Palliative Care Consult Service at UCSD, La Jolla Heather Herman, RN, MS, NP Nurse Practitioner What is Palliative Care? Palliative Care is symptom management for patients with
More informationWhat is pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic Cancer What is pancreatic cancer? Let us explain it to you. www.anticancerfund.org www.esmo.org ESMO/ACF Patient Guide Series based on the ESMO Clinical Practice Guidelines PANCREATIC CANCER:
More informationEsophageal Cancer. Understanding your diagnosis
Esophageal Cancer Understanding your diagnosis Esophageal Cancer Understanding your diagnosis When you first hear that you have cancer, you may feel alone and afraid. You may be overwhelmed by the large
More informationBiliary Stone Disease
Biliary Stone Disease Delivering the best in care UHB is a no smoking Trust To see all of our current patient information leaflets please visit www.uhb.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflets.htm You have
More informationSurgery for Pancreatic cancer
Surgery for Pancreatic cancer Patient Information Booklet Delivering the best in care UHB is a no smoking Trust To see all of our current patient information leaflets please visit www.uhb.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflets.htm
More informationWhat is cancer? Who gets cancer? Common symptoms of cancer. Treatment for cancer. What you can do to help. Pain management. Helpful cancer resources
What is cancer? Who gets cancer? Common symptoms of cancer Treatment for cancer What you can do to help Pain management Helpful cancer resources C A N C E R Caring for a loved one with cancer is no easy
More informationCancer Pain. Relief from PALLIATIVE CARE
PALLIATIVE CARE Relief from Cancer Pain National Clinical Programme for Palliative Care For more information on the National Clinical Programme for Palliative Care, go to www.hse.ie/palliativecareprogramme
More informationPain Management after Surgery Patient Information Booklet
Pain Management after Surgery Patient Information Booklet PATS 509-15-05 Your Health Care Be Involved Be involved in your healthcare. Speak up if you have questions or concerns about your care. Tell a
More informationrestricted to certain centers and certain patients, preferably in some sort of experimental trial format.
Managing Pancreatic Cancer, Part 4: Pancreatic Cancer Surgery, Complications, & the Importance of Surgical Volume Dr. Matthew Katz, Surgeon, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX I m going to talk a little
More informationA Woman s Guide to Prostate Cancer Treatment
A Woman s Guide to Prostate Cancer Treatment Supporting the man in your life Providing prostate cancer support and resources for women and families WOMEN AGAINST PROSTATE CANCER A Woman s Guide to Prostate
More informationProblems of the Digestive System
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists f AQ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FAQ120 WOMEN S HEALTH Problems of the Digestive System What are some common digestive problems? What is constipation?
More informationLaparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Removal of Gall Bladder Page 12 Patient Information Further Information We endeavour to provide an excellent service at all times, but should you have any concerns please,
More informationEarly Prostate Cancer: Questions and Answers. Key Points
CANCER FACTS N a t i o n a l C a n c e r I n s t i t u t e N a t i o n a l I n s t i t u t e s o f H e a l t h D e p a r t m e n t o f H e a l t h a n d H u m a n S e r v i c e s Early Prostate Cancer:
More informationKidney Cancer. Understanding your diagnosis
Kidney Cancer Understanding your diagnosis Kidney Cancer Understanding your diagnosis When you first hear that you have cancer, you may feel alone and afraid. You may be overwhelmed by the large amount
More informationBreast Cancer. Breast Cancer Page 1
Breast Cancer Summary Breast cancers which are detected early are curable by local treatments. The initial surgery will give the most information about the cancer; such as size or whether the glands (or
More informationChemotherapy Side Effects Worksheet
Page 1 of 6 Chemotherapy Side Effects Worksheet Medicines or drugs that destroy cancer cells are called cancer chemotherapy. It is sometimes the first choice for treating many cancers. Chemotherapy differs
More informationIndividualizing Your Lung Cancer Care: Informing Decisions Through Biomarker Testing
Individualizing Your Lung Cancer Care: Informing Decisions Through Biomarker Testing These Are Hopeful Times for Lung Cancer Survivors When people first learn they have cancer, they are often afraid. But
More informationPancreatoduodenectomy (Whipple s Procedure)
Pancreatoduodenectomy (Whipple s Procedure) Your doctor has arranged to surgically remove part of your pancreas or Whipple s procedure. We have written this pamphlet to help you learn about your surgery
More informationMantle Cell Lymphoma and New Treatments on the Horizon
MANTLE CELL LYMPHOMA Mantle Cell Lymphoma and New Treatments on the Horizon Presented by James Armitage, MD University of Nebraska Medical Center Pierluigi Porcu, MD The Ohio State University Comprehensive
More informationAn Introduction to PROSTATE CANCER
An Introduction to PROSTATE CANCER Being diagnosed with prostate cancer can be a life-altering experience. It requires making some very difficult decisions about treatments that can affect not only the
More information