Best Pancreatic Cancer Doctors in Mumbai

Pancreatic cancer is a complex disease, originating from the abnormal and rapid growth of cells in the pancreas. This progression results from alterations in DNA, which could be inherited or acquired due to exposure to harmful substances or random mutations. Risk factors include smoking, obesity, long-standing diabetes, chronic pancreatitis, certain genetic mutations, and a family history of pancreatic cancer.

In Mumbai, the residents can access Apollo Hospital, a well-equipped facility with qualified doctors and surgeons to address various health concerns. Mumbai's Apollo Hospitals house a team of experienced pancreatic cancer specialists. These doctors for pancreatic cancer offer a patient-centred approach, ensuring a well-coordinated treatment journey for pancreatic cancer patients.

Types/Stages of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer can manifest in two main forms determined by pancreatic cancer specialists:

• Exocrine Tumours: These are the most prevalent type, constituting about 93% of all pancreatic cancers. They originate in the exocrine cells of the pancreas that are tasked with producing digestive enzymes. The predominant type of exocrine tumour is adenocarcinoma.

• Endocrine Tumours (PNETs): Far less common than exocrine tumours, they comprise about 7% of all pancreatic cancers. They arise in the endocrine cells of the pancreas that generate hormones. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours can be functioning or non-functioning.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

The symptoms associated with pancreatic cancer can often be nonspecific and may include:

• Weight loss

• Fatigue and abnormal physical weakness

• Jaundice

• Dark urine

• Mid-epigastric pain

• Onset of diabetes mellitus

• Gastrointestinal problems

Tests to Diagnose Pancreatic Cancer

Diagnosis by pancreatic cancer doctors often requires a combination of different tests, including:

• Tests: Imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans to visualize the pancreas and the surrounding organs.

• Endoscopy: Endoscopic ultrasound for a closer look at the pancreas.

• Blood tests: Blood tests to detect tumour markers like CA19-9.

• Biopsy: A small sample of tissue is taken from the pancreas to examine under a microscope.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Pancreatic Cancer at Apollo Hospitals in Mumbai:

At Apollo Hospitals in Mumbai, various treatment strategies are provided by some of the best doctors for pancreatic cancer. These often depend on the stage, location of cancer, overall health of the patient, and personal preferences. The options include:

• Surgery: Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple procedure), total pancreatectomy, and distal pancreatectomy are potential interventions that can be carried out by pancreatic cancer surgeons.

• Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy rays (like X-rays) to destroy or shrink cancer cells.

• Chemotherapy: Involving drugs such as FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine, chemotherapy can be used before (neoadjuvant) and after surgery (adjuvant)or as palliative therapy when surgery is not an option.