What Is The Treatment Option For Pancreatic Cancer?

Posted on Thu, 18 Dec 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 18 Dec 2014 Answered on

Wed, 14 Jan 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi,

My father, age 72 years, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic cancer and the doctors here have advised not go for any type of treatment since the stage is beyond any cure. However, as humans are always hopeful, I would like to seek answer from an expert in US or UK on following;
1. The possibility of treating the cancer (may not be fully) but at least able to extend the life span.
2. If treatment is not possible what are the different treatment through which he is at least able to live his last days little peacefully.

Thanks,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Indranil Ghosh (8 hours later)

Brief Answer:
chemotherapy can be tried if the patient is fit

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query.

I understand your concerns. However, it is true that the cancer has spread and is incurable.

Chemotherapy can improve quality of life and extend survival in selected fit patients. If the patient is unable to move around freely and is very frail then chemo doesn't help.

In particular I would like to mention a combination of gemcitabine and nano paclitaxel chemotherapy.

If he is unfit for chemo then best thing is to give supportive treatment including pain relief, nutrition, psychological support and so on.

Hope I have answered your query. I will be available to answer further follow up queries.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D