Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging cancers to treat, often progressing silently until it reaches advanced stages. At the Cancer Center of Southern California, our mission is to provide clarity, hope, and access to advanced treatments that may not be available elsewhere.
Led by internationally recognized oncologist Dr. Sant P. Chawla, our team combines decades of expertise with groundbreaking research to give patients options beyond standard care. Many who come to us have been told they have few or no remaining options, and we work to change that.
Call us at (310) 552-9999 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation today.
Types of Pancreatic Cancer
There are two main types of pancreatic cancer.
Exocrine Pancreatic Tumors
These cancers begin in the part of the pancreas that produces digestive enzymes. Subtypes include:
- Adenocarcinoma
- Acinar Cell Carcinoma
- Intraductal Papillary-Mucinous Neoplasm (IPMN)
- Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm with Invasive Adenocarcinoma
Neuroendocrine Tumors (PNETs) (Rare & Slow-Growing)
These tumors develop in the hormone-producing islet cells of the pancreas. Subtypes include:
- Gastrinoma
- Glucagonoma
- Insulinoma
- Somatostatinoma
- VIPoma
- Nonfunctional Islet Cell Tumor
Our Expertise in Complex & Advanced Cases
Our expertise in treating pancreatic cancer is built on a foundation of groundbreaking research and a commitment to whole-body care.
Many patients come to us after being told they have no remaining options. At the Cancer Center of Southern California, our oncologists specialize in managing complex and advanced cancers, including difficult pancreatic cancer cases.
- Advanced diagnostics & biomarker testing to reveal new possibilities
- Decades of research experience and leadership mean we can uncover new therapy options
- Second-opinion consultations for clarity on diagnosis and next steps
- Access to a wide range of national and international new drug and therapy trials
Please call us at 310-552-9999 to learn more about your treatment options and discover new possibilities for care.
Symptoms & Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer
Due to the pancreas's deep location within the abdomen, symptoms are often vague and can be easily mistaken for other issues. Common signs may include jaundice, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and digestive problems.
We use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose these difficult cancers.
We use cutting-edge imaging, including CT scans, MRI, and PET scans, to accurately locate tumors and assess their spread.
We analyze blood for specific tumor markers (like CA 19-9) and perform genetic testing to understand the unique biological characteristics of your tumor.
A biopsy, often performed via Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS), is essential to confirm the diagnosis and identify the tumor subtype.
How We Make a Difference in Pancreatic Cancer Care
We believe that every patient deserves timely access to advanced therapies and compassionate care. That’s why we provide:
- Same-week access to leading oncologists (when possible)
- One of the largest portfolios of clinical trials in California
- Compassionate use pathways when trials aren’t an option
- Whole-person care that prioritizes quality of life as well as treatment outcomes
Treatment Approaches for Pancreatic Cancer
Every treatment plan is carefully tailored to your diagnosis, tumor biology, and overall health. Treatment options may include:
These may be used together to shrink tumors, relieve symptoms, and reduce recurrence risk.
These options block genetic changes or stimulate the immune system and may be used when appropriate.
For eligible patients, surgical procedures such as the Whipple operation can remove the tumor and offer the best chance of long-term survival.
We coordinate across specialties, bringing together surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and genetic experts from leading institutions to build an integrated plan.
Clinical Trials Access
Clinical trials open the door to breakthrough treatments years before they become widely available. For many patients, these trials represent the best path forward when standard treatments are no longer effective.
The Cancer Center of Southern California has a long history of leading and enrolling patients in clinical trials. Our team works to remove barriers and make access as straightforward as possible.
- Eligibility for HMO and Kaiser patients
- Guidance with insurance and drug trial applications
- Compassionate use pathways (INDs) for those not eligible for trials
- Travel and lodging support, often covered by sponsors
From the first conversation to ongoing participation, our dedicated staff provides hands-on support to patients and families.
Expert Care for Pancreatic Cancer in Southern California
Choosing where to seek care is one of the most important decisions you will make. At the Cancer Center of Southern California, we focus on access, innovation, and support that set your care apart. To schedule an appointment, call us at 310-552-9999 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
The pancreas is located deep in the abdomen, and tumors rarely cause early symptoms. This makes it difficult to detect during routine exams or imaging until the disease has advanced.
Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer rarely causes noticeable early symptoms. When signs do appear, they may include abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, or changes in digestion.
Diagnosis of pancreatic cancer often requires a combination of imaging scans (CT, MRI, PET), blood tests for tumor markers, and biopsy procedures, such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). In some cases, laparoscopy may be used to directly examine the pancreas and nearby tissues.
After diagnosis, additional imaging or blood tests may be recommended to map out the tumor and look for genetic or biomarker details. These insights are crucial for understanding the tumor, selecting the most effective treatments, and identifying whether you may be a candidate for clinical trials.
