A Stage 3 Pancreatic Cancer diagnosis means that:

1. The tumor in your pancreas is any size and it has spread to 4 or more nearby lymph nodes shown at point a,

or,

2. The tumor has spread to your major blood vessels near the pancreas as shown in the image at point b.

This type of locally advanced Pancreatic Cancer has spread in such a way that surgery cannot completely remove the cancer.  This is what makes it un-resectable.

What Tests Will I Need and Why?

Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health, confirm your diagnosis and determine your cancer stage.

Tissue analysis can be done to identify the cancer cell type, which is critical to finding the best treatment option for you.

You may also require special Saliva or Blood Analysis to look for specific mutations (actual changes in your body’s DNA), called BRCA1 and BRCA2.

If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.

Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.

Replay this audio as often as needed and then take a look at our Commonly Searched Questions below.