Expert Diagnosis and Multidisciplinary Care for Pancreatic Cancer
Dr. Tushar Madake offers expert diagnostic services and coordinates multidisciplinary care for pancreatic cancer, focusing on early detection, accurate staging, and advanced therapeutic options like ERCP and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).
Pancreatic cancer is a challenging disease that often presents at an advanced stage. Early detection is difficult, but advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy have improved our ability to diagnose and manage this condition. Dr. Madake plays a key role in this process.
Recognizing the Signs
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
- Upper abdominal or back pain
- New-onset diabetes, especially in older adults
- Dark urine and clay-colored stools
Risk Factors
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Family history/genetic syndromes
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Long-standing diabetes
Dr. Madake's Role in Pancreatic Cancer Care
Early and accurate diagnosis is critical. Dr. Madake provides essential diagnostic and palliative endoscopic services.
- Advanced Diagnostic Endoscopy: We utilize state-of-the-art techniques:
- Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): This is a key tool. Dr. Madake uses EUS to obtain high-resolution images of the pancreas and, most importantly, to perform fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) to obtain a tissue sample (biopsy) for a definitive diagnosis.
- ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): If a pancreatic tumor is causing jaundice by blocking the bile duct, Dr. Madake can perform ERCP to place a stent, opening the bile duct and relieving jaundice without the need for surgery.
- Multidisciplinary Coordination: After diagnosis, Dr. Madake works closely with a team of oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists to develop a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination.
- Palliative Care: For advanced cases, we focus on managing symptoms like jaundice (via biliary stenting), pain, and nutritional issues to maintain the highest possible quality of life.
- Support and Guidance: We provide compassionate support and clear information to help you and your family navigate this difficult journey.
Dr. Madake is committed to providing the highest level of diagnostic expertise and coordinated care for patients facing pancreatic cancer.