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Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is complicated. The symptoms can be vague, making it difficult to detect. At Cedars‑Sinai, an expert group of specialists works together to accurately and efficiently diagnose pancreatic cancer. They provide you with comprehensive care and the latest in innovative treatment options.

Starting Your Care Journey

Signs & Symptoms

Pancreatic cancer begins in the pancreas, the organ in the lower part of your abdomen that helps regulate blood sugar and digestion. The symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often vague or go unnoticed, making the disease difficult to diagnose. Frequently, pancreatic cancer reaches an advanced stage before you experience any symptoms. If you do have symptoms, they may include: 

  • Abdominal pain
  • Back pain
  • Feelings of weakness
  • Jaundice, a yellowish discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes
  • Loss of appetite, nausea or weight loss

Our Pancreatic Cancer Program offers true multidisciplinary care for patients affected with or suspected of having pancreatic and biliary diseases, such as:

  • Pancreatic tumors: Irregular cells start in the pancreas
  • Ampullary tumors: Irregular cells form in the small opening connecting the pancreas and the small intestine (ampulla of Vater)
  • Bile duct tumors: Irregular cells begin in small tubes that carry digestive fluid (bile ducts)
  • Cystic neoplasms: Small, fluid‑filled growths form in the pancreas
  • Duodenal tumors: Irregular cells form in the first portion of the small intestine (duodenum)
  • Gallbladder tumors: Irregular cells form in the abdominal organ that stores bile (gallbladder)

"It can take four to six weeks to get through the diagnostic process for this complicated cancer. We do it in a matter of a few hours. Our goal is to minimize that burden and reduce the anxiety and wear and tear of traveling to multiple clinics. Patients want to begin treatment as soon as possible."

— Dr. Arsen Osipov, medical oncologist and head of the Pancreatic Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic

Comprehensive Pancreatic Cancer Care

  • Patient and Family Support Program

    At Cedars‑Sinai, we offer multiple resources to help you and your family confront the challenges of cancer. Our team of dedicated experts provides compassionate, personalized care.

  • Pancreatic Cancer Clinical Trials

    Cedars‑Sinai is constantly testing new treatments to improve our patients’ outcomes. Find out more about our open clinical trials.

  • Pancreatic Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic

    Our Pancreatic Cancer Multidisciplinary Clinic offers an all‑in-one day comprehensive visit with pancreatic cancer experts from every relevant specialty. Our team approach helps to ensure the best outcomes for patients seeking treatment or even a robust second opinion.

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GI Cancer News From Cedars‑Sinai

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Gastrointestinal Cancer Research

Cedars‑Sinai researchers are always investigating new technologies and techniques for treating gastrointestinal cancer. Our research helps us care for more patients with more complex cases.

Grivennikov Lab

Researchers in the Grivennikov Lab are working together to examine tumor growth factors in an effort to further understand the progression of certain cancers, including colon and pancreatic cancers.

Gastrointestinal Cancer Clinical Trials

Our clinical trials allow us to evaluate new medications, treatments and technologies that may revolutionize the care we can provide patients with gastrointestinal cancers.

Bench to Bedside Breakthroughs

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