Questions about Pancreatic Cancer - Cancer: Pancreatic & Liver Message Board

MaryLiz50 · 07-21-2008, 01:59 PM

My stepchildren's mother was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer March 2008. They found it had already spread to her liver, did not look further so I do not know where else it spread. She went thru intravenous chemo, had a whipple (spelling) procedure and I believe she is taking oral chemo daily. Last week they removed 4 liters of fluid from her. even tho she said she is still going to the bathroom. Any clues what is causing the fluid retention? Could it be from a side-effect of the chemo or is this a normal progression of the disease and the start of her decline. I don't have much more info, she does not say much to anyone except to say she has lost alot of weight and is weak. Thanks for any insight.

leea1206 · 07-26-2008, 11:12 PM

Maryliz,

I would guess that the cancer in her liver is causing ascites or fluid in her abdominal area. This will probably need to be drained from time to time (paracentesis).

I am so sorry your stepchildren's mom is going through this.

I am a breast cancer survivor.
Best wishes to you and your family.

MaryLiz50 · 07-28-2008, 08:08 AM

Leea - thank you. Unfortunately she is back in the hospital, had to drain more fluid. They told my stepdaughter they thought she had some kind of blockage somewhere, and ruled out a side-effect of the oral chemotherapy she is taking. This is a horrible unrelenting form of cancer and as much as I do not want to think about it, I unfortunately suspect this is likely the start of her decline.

Good luck to you through your journey.

linda413 · 07-30-2008, 08:12 PM

Maryliz, the blockage could be 'sludge in the bile duct'. My dad has pancreatic cancer. The doctors have placed a stent in the bile duct, to releive the blockage. It is a procedure that has to be repeated each 3-4 months. I've found with this kind of cancer, we just have to accept the poor odds. The pancreas is the gateway to so many other organs and the cancer cells spread fast. Enjoy the good days that are ahead. There will be some. Take care. Later, Linda

val35 · 10-16-2008, 01:41 PM

I just found out today my dad has pancreatic cancer and it has spread to his liver. I've been on the computer all day researching the disease, the treatments, life expectancy, etc. It's so devistating to think I may only have a few months left to hang out with him. Throughout my searching on the internet I found a few miracle stories of people currently living five years after being diagnosed with stage four pancreatic cancer. I don't want to get my hopes up nor do I want to give up - I think I'm still in shock from the bad news. Anyways, this is my first time writing and if anyone has any advice to offer on any aspect of this disease please feel free to comment. I know it's important to find a good hospital so that sort of feedback will help too. Thanks