Pancreatic cancer, also called exocrine cancer, is a disease in which cancer cells are found in the pancreas tissue, according to the National Cancer Institute. The pancreas is an organ located between the stomach and spine. It's responsible for producing hormones and juices to break down foods and control blood sugar levels.
Strategy
Treatments depend on the stage and location of the cancer within the pancreas. The strategy for treating this disease is to eliminate, prevent, or treat the symptoms of this cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Surgery
Surgery is only possible if the cancer has not already spread. The portion of the pancreas that is infected with the cancer cells is removed. However, surgeries run the risk of infections and bleeding.
Radiation Treatment
Beams of radiation are used to kill cancer cells. This method of treatment can be used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill the cancer. The Mayo Clinic says this method of treatment can combine different chemo drugs or use just one, be injected or taken orally, and be used in combination with radiation treatment and surgery.
Targeted Drug Therapy
Drugs such as erlotinib are used to block the signals that tell cancer cells to grow and multiply. This treatment can be used in combination with chemotherapy.
