Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer accounts for 3% of all cancers in the United States and more than 55,000 men and women are diagnosed with the disease each year. This cancer is highly aggressive and requires prompt treatment, which Charleston Oncology provides. From clinical trials to standard chemotherapy, the team of oncologists ensures that patients have what they need to combat the disease. For more information about pancreatic cancer, call to request a consultation.
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WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PANCREATIC CANCER CARE AT CHARLESTON ONCOLOGY
At Charleston Oncology, we understand that a pancreatic cancer diagnosis can be frightening. That’s why our medical oncology team is here to guide you through every step of your treatment. With expertise, innovative therapies, and a patient-focused approach, we aim to empower you with clarity, confidence, and support throughout your pancreatic cancer journey.
CONDUCTING THE ORCHESTRA OF CARE
Your medical oncologist serves as the central guide in your pancreatic cancer care. Like an orchestra conductor, your oncologist ensures that surgeons, radiologists, gastroenterologists, and support staff work together seamlessly.
Your oncologist advocates for you at every stage, helping you understand your options and coordinating care to deliver the best outcomes tailored to your unique needs.
TYPES OF PANCREATIC CANCER
Pancreatic cancer can arise from two types of cells, each requiring a distinct approach:
- Exocrine cells: Make up the majority of the pancreas and release digestive enzymes. Most pancreatic cancers (over 95%) are adenocarcinomas of these cells. Rare forms include adenosquamous, squamous cell, signet ring cell, and undifferentiated carcinomas.
- Endocrine cells:Produce hormones like insulin and glucagon. Fewer than 5% of pancreatic cancers arise from these cells.
DIAGNOSIS AND STAGING
Pancreatic cancer is often aggressive and can spread before symptoms appear. Common warning signs include:
- Upper abdominal pain
- Back pain
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Jaundice
- Fatigue
- Onset of diabetes>
Accurate diagnosis is essential. At Charleston Oncology, we use advanced diagnostic tools:
- Imaging: CT scan, MRI, or PET scan to detect suspicious areas.
- Endoscopic ultrasound: Provides detailed images and allows for guided biopsy.
- Biopsy: Tissue testing to confirm the presence and type of cancer.
Once diagnosed, your oncologist stages the cancer to determine the extent of disease and develop a personalized treatment plan.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Your treatment, your choice—it all starts with understanding your options. At Charleston Oncology, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Schedule an appointment with one of our colon cancer specialists today to explore the care, expertise, and innovation that make Charleston Oncology a trusted leader in cancer treatment.
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Why is pancreatic cancer so difficult to detect early?
Pancreatic cancer rarely causes noticeable symptoms in its earliest stages, when it would be most treatable. The pancreas is located deep within the abdomen, making small tumors difficult to detect. There is currently no routine screening test for average-risk individuals. Symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, or new-onset diabetes often appear only after the disease has advanced. High-risk individuals — including those with a strong family history or hereditary syndromes such as BRCA mutations — should discuss surveillance options with their physician.
What systemic treatment options are available for pancreatic cancer?
For metastatic or locally advanced unresectable disease, systemic chemotherapy is the primary treatment. Current first-line regimens include FOLFIRINOX (for patients with good performance status) and gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel. For patients with BRCA1/2 or PALB2 mutations, PARP inhibitor maintenance therapy may be appropriate after platinum-based chemotherapy. Biomarker testing for MSI-H/dMMR, NTRK fusions, and KRAS G12C can identify eligibility for immunotherapy or targeted therapy in select patients. Comprehensive molecular profiling is a standard part of the evaluation at Charleston Oncology.
If surgery is recommended, what role does the medical oncologist play?
For the minority of patients whose disease is surgically resectable, the medical oncologist plays a critical role both before and after surgery. Pre-operatively, chemotherapy (neoadjuvant therapy) may be recommended to reduce the risk of microscopic spread. Post-operatively, adjuvant chemotherapy — typically with modified FOLFIRINOX or gemcitabine/capecitabine — is standard of care to reduce recurrence risk. Your Charleston Oncology oncologist coordinates the timing and delivery of all systemic therapy in close collaboration with the surgical team.
Are clinical trials available for pancreatic cancer at Charleston Oncology?
Yes. Given the aggressive nature of pancreatic cancer and the continued need for better treatment options, clinical trial participation is particularly valuable. As part of the Bon Secours St. Francis Cancer Care network, Charleston Oncology participates in clinical research offering access to novel therapeutic strategies not yet available in standard practice. We encourage all eligible patients to discuss clinical trial options with their oncologist at or shortly after their first consultation.
How can I manage the nutritional challenges that come with pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer and its treatment can significantly affect nutrition and digestion. The pancreas produces enzymes critical to digesting food — and tumors or surgery affecting the pancreas can impair this function. Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) is often prescribed to help patients digest food and maintain weight. A registered dietitian with experience in oncology nutrition is an important member of your care team at Charleston Oncology, and we proactively address nutritional challenges because maintaining adequate weight and strength directly affects your ability to tolerate treatment.
Medical Oncology and Hematology Specialists located in Downtown Charleston, North Charleston, West Ashley, Mt. Pleasant, Summerville & Walterboro, SC.
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt like my whole world stopped. But from the moment I walked into Charleston Oncology, I knew I was in the right hands. The doctors explained everything clearly and made me feel like I wasn’t just another patient — I was part of their family.
Sarah T – Breast Cancer Survivor
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Voted Best In Charleston
Charleston Oncology – Best Oncology Practice
With over 100 years of combined experience, the team of hematologists and oncologists at Charleston Oncology, a department of Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital, is proud to be named HealthLinks Magazine’s Best Oncology Practice.
David Ellison, M.D. – Best Oncologist
Honored as Best Oncologist, Dr. David Ellison is a past recipient of the Physician Champion Award from the Roper St. Francis Foundation, founding chairman of the Lowcountry Komen for the Cure Foundation, and principal investigator for several groundbreaking cancer drug clinical trials.
