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Symptoms

There often are no obvious symptoms until pancreatic cancer reaches advanced stages. Symptoms also may vary, based on the type of cancer and where it is found in the pancreas. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

  • Abdominal pain that radiates toward your back

  • Blood clots

  • Dark-colored urine

  • General fatigue

  • Itchy skin

  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

  • Light-colored stool

  • Loss of appetite

  • Recent diabetes diagnosis or new difficulties controlling existing diabetes

  • Unexplained weight loss

Understanding Your Diagnosis

As you begin conversations with your care team, understanding a few key terms can help you feel more confident and in control. Below, we’ve outlined some common words and phrases you may hear during your appointments, so you can focus on what matters most: your care, your questions and your next steps.


  • A complex surgery that removes part of the pancreas and surrounding organs. Orlando Health is the only system in Central Florida that performs his procedure robotically, meaning faster recovery time for our patients.

  • A procedure that removes a small sample of tissue so doctors can confirm if cancer is present and what type it is.

  • A blood test that measures a tumor marker often elevated in pancreatic cancer. It can help monitor how the cancer responds to treatment.

  • A group of specialists — including surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and others — who work together to create your personalized treatment plan.

  • Specialized care focused on relieving symptoms, managing side effects, and improving quality of life—offered at any stage of cancer, not just end-of-life.

  • A term used when the tumor can be removed with surgery. Your care team may talk about whether your cancer is “resectable,” “borderline” or “unresectable.”

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