What Is Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer?

Many terms can be used to define the extent and severity of pancreatic cancer. As a patient, you may hear the term “locally advanced” used to describe your cancer. This means that your cancer has not spread far beyond your pancreas, but has advanced to the point where it cannot be surgically removed.

No two cases of pancreatic cancer are the same. Some patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer may undergo surgery to remove a portion of the tumor, while others rely on nonsurgical therapies to help reduce symptoms and slow the spread of cancerous cells. Locally advanced pancreatic cancer is typically associated with patients in stage 3 of the disease as determined by the TNM (tumor, nodes and metastasis) grading system.

Treatment for locally advanced pancreatic cancer

Moffitt Cancer Center, a high-volume cancer center that stands at the forefront of treatment and clinical research, offers comprehensive treatment and supportive care services to patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer. Our Endocrine Oncology Program is led by a multispecialty team of specialists who collaborate to develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient. As our patient, you will be seen by experts who focus exclusively on pancreatic cancer and possess an unparalleled level of experience addressing even the most complex cases.

Moffitt also spearheads many trailblazing clinical trials and research initiatives to improve the ways in which pancreatic cancers are evaluated and treated. Due to our efforts, the National Cancer Institute has designated Moffitt as a Comprehensive Cancer Center, and we are the only such center based in Florida.

Are you interested in speaking with a Moffitt physician about your pancreatic cancer treatment options? If so, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online. Moffitt welcomes patients with or without referrals.