This map explains pancreatic cancer step by step: what it is, the types, the tests, the stages, the treatment and its side effects.
Tap any topic on the map to read about it. Topics with an arrow open more topics.
Tap a type on the map.
A different, usually slower-growing tumour of the pancreas, treated very differently. Neuroendocrine tumours
Tap a test on the map to see why it is done.
Please wait for all the reports. Why we wait
A special pancreas-protocol CT shows the tumour and its relation to the large blood vessels nearby. This decides whether surgery is possible. MRI and PET-CT are used in some patients.
EUS (ultrasound through an endoscope) takes a needle biopsy from the pancreas. A biopsy is needed before chemotherapy.
If you have jaundice, a stent is placed in the bile duct by ERCP (or a drain through the skin). The bilirubin must come down before chemotherapy can be given safely.
A tumour marker in the blood. Checked at the start and then to follow the response.
Before starting chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy, these tests check that you are fit for treatment, and give a starting point to compare with later.
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| CBC (complete blood count) | Haemoglobin, white cells and platelets. Treatment can lower them. |
| RFT (kidney function) | Many medicines are cleared by the kidneys; the dose may need to change. |
| LFT (liver function) | Many medicines are processed by the liver. |
| Viral markers: HBsAg, anti-HCV, HIV | Hepatitis B can flare up during treatment. If positive, a tablet is given to prevent this. |
| Blood sugar (and HbA1c if diabetic) | Steroids given with chemotherapy can raise blood sugar. |
| ECG and 2D Echo | Check the heart rhythm and pumping before treatment, as some medicines affect the heart. |
Before immunotherapy, also:
| Test | Why it is done |
|---|---|
| Serum TSH (thyroid) | Immunotherapy can affect the thyroid gland. |
| Serum cortisol (morning sample) | Immunotherapy can affect the adrenal and pituitary glands. |
Sometimes needed, depending on your treatment:
Your doctor will choose the tests that apply to you. Some of them are repeated during treatment.
In pancreatic cancer, what matters most is whether the tumour can be removed by surgery. Tap your stage on the map.
The tumour can be removed. It is not touching the main blood vessels. (Usually stage 1 or 2.) The aim is cure.
The tumour touches the blood vessels a little. Chemotherapy first may shrink it enough for surgery.
The tumour surrounds the main blood vessels, so it cannot be removed now. (Usually stage 3.) Not spread to other organs.
Spread to the liver, peritoneum, lungs or other organs. Not curable; treatment can control it and relieve symptoms.
Tap your stage on the map. Supportive care (pain, nutrition, digestion) is important at every stage.
Side effects: surgery · chemotherapy
Side effects: chemotherapy · surgery
Your doctor will advise genetic testing and tumour NGS. Why
Side effects: chemotherapy
Tap a treatment on the map.
Looking after yourself during treatment. Tap a topic on the map.
Pancreatic cancer raises the risk of blood clots. Tell us at once about leg swelling or pain, or sudden breathlessness. Some patients are given a blood thinner.
Fever with shivering and jaundice (possible blocked stent), increasing yellowness, fever of 38°C or more during chemotherapy, leg swelling, sudden breathlessness, or vomiting with inability to eat need urgent care.
This information is general. Your own treatment plan may be different. Please discuss it with your doctor.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr Prathyusha Eaga, MD, DM (Medical Oncology). Last reviewed: 12 October 2026. Based on NCCN and ESMO guidelines.
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