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Newly diagnosed pancreatic cancer
My mom is 81 and relatively healthy, thyroid disease and hypertension, and was just diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the head of the pancreas. Her CA19-9 was 135 a week ago. She has a biliary stent because the mass was pushing on her bile duct causing her to become jaundiced. I’m not sure what my question is…I’m just so scared. We have an appt next week with a surgeon but I’m not sure she will tolerate surgery or chemo or both. She’s lost a lot of weight the past month. Her MRI did not show enlarged lymph nodes. Is a CA19-9 of 135 real high?
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@tootsie100, CancerCare Manitoba is an excellent cancer centre. You are in good hands there. Should you want to seek a second opinion out of province or out of country, the costs may not be covered by your provincial health care plan.
Here's some information about the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer from Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pancreatic-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355427
If you scroll to the bottom of the page, you will see a section called "Preparing for your appointment" and "questions to ask". I think they will help you prepare for your next appointment.
What questions do you have?
Thank you for all the information. I will check it out.
Thank you.
In getting a 2nd opinion you might consider a "multi-disciplinary consult" at a high volume pancreatic cancer center. This makes sense especially if you have scans and blood work already. Examination will hopefully determine, stage, location, resectability, and best treatment.
In this case an Oncologist, Radiologist, and Surgeon will be present. Just my opinion.