What it is
Symptoms often appear late, so it is frequently found after it has spread. A specialist team plans treatment.
Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Care to ease symptoms, such as stents for jaundice and enzyme capsules for digestion, is also important.
Common signs
- Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Tummy or back pain
- Losing weight without trying
- Pale, greasy stools
- Indigestion or feeling sick
- New diabetes
How it is usually diagnosed
- Blood tests
- CT scan
- Endoscopic ultrasound with a biopsy
- MRI or PET scan
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- CT and MRI reports
- Biopsy and pathology reports
- Multidisciplinary team (MDT) letters
- Treatment plans
- Medicine lists
Questions to ask your doctor
- What stage is the cancer?
- Is surgery an option for me?
- Who can help with pain, diet and support?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Yellow skin with a high temperature and shivering, or vomiting that does not stop: get urgent help, call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.