Radiation for pancreatic cancer

Posted by writerpat @writerpat, Sep 22 1:07pm

I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after a year and a half of pain and feeling poorly. I’m opting for limited, “gentle” radiation (10 10-minute sessions). Anyone else going this route?

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mcharlesfrancis | @mcharlesfrancis | Sep 23 7:23am

I had radiation for pancreatic cancer after completing chemotherapy. I received 33 radiation treatments, Monday through Friday, so my course was quite different from the 10 treatments you are considering.

There are several ways radiation can be used for pancreatic cancer, including shorter courses. A 10-treatment course can be a recognized approach, particularly when the goal is controlling the tumor locally or relieving symptoms such as pain. The important thing is to understand exactly what your radiation oncologist is trying to accomplish with your particular course.

I would ask: Is the goal of these 10 treatments to control the cancer, reduce my pain, shrink the tumor, or all three? What dose am I receiving with each treatment, and what treatment comes after radiation?

I would also strongly encourage you to have your case reviewed at a major pancreatic cancer center with a multidisciplinary team. Pancreatic cancer treatment can be complicated, and a second opinion can be extremely valuable.

I was diagnosed more than seven years ago and my tumor was not resectable. I went through chemotherapy followed by radiation, and I am still here. Everyone's situation is different, but I think it is important to know all of your options and not be afraid to get another opinion.

stevm | @stevm | Sep 23 12:20pm

Like you, I had 28 days of chemo/radiation following distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy and 12 rounds of chemo. I am three plus year NED. I would agree that a second opinion from a major pancreatic cancer treatment facility is always highly recommended.