My close family member was diagnosed in December 06 with mixed acinar/endocrine 11 cm tumor in tail of pancreas growing into the spleen. Distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy done mid Jan 07. Clean margins, lymph nodes, good labs. Very grateful for that.
Second workup done at Mayo. Clot found at portal vein and now on Coumadin. Mayo onc has seen only 5 of this specific type of mixed tumor.
Now, plan next week on chemo for 2 months 3wk on, 1 wk off, with 1 IV med a wk and one oral daily I think. Then radiation for 5.5 wks with oral med, then chemo again. Not sure of the meds. Pretty aggressive according to Mayo.
Experience at Mayo was disappointing due to poor communication but the home onc seems satisfactory. No Dr. has made any predictions to my knowledge.
Everyone is shocked and scared.
Any information or similar experiences to relate to would be welcome.
Especially wondering what/how treatment went for anyone with acinar.
Thanks.