Exocrine Pancreatic Cancer is difficult to detect early because its symptoms are similar to other illnesses and because the pancreas is hidden behind other organs. Often, this type of cancer is not detected until it has spread. Symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, digestive problems, blood clots or fatty tissue abnormalities, chronic fatigue, fainting, or weight gain without eating too much. These symptoms coupled with the risk factors described earlier warrant a trip to see a doctor as soon as possible.
The most commonly used chemotherapy drug is 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Recent studies, however, show gemcitabine to be more effective. Further studies comparing the effectiveness of these two drugs in treating various types of cancers are in progress, as well as other studies combining these two drugs with each other or other chemotherapy drugs.
Chemotherapy can have some side effects. These side effects will depend on the type of drugs given, the amount taken, and how long treatment lasts. Temporary side effects might include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss, and mouth sores. Low blood cell counts from treatment can cause an increased risk of infection, bleeding or bruising after minor cuts, and fatigue. Most side effects stop once treatment is over. Anyone who has problems with side effects should talk with their doctor or nurse, as there are often ways to help. -