#blood test for pancreatic cancer

[l3irdl3rain]

Merrill update under the cut, it’s long.

TLDR: she is very sick. Many of the things are treatable, but also she has cancer and I won’t put a 20 year old cat through chemo. So far she is showing minimal symptoms (sleeping more, less appetite). I’m hoping we can get the treatable things under control and we’ll have some good time left before the cancer really starts to affect her.

Radiologist said the “mass” that looked like it was on her heart is actually most likely just a bronchial cyst. I would need to go get a CT scan done to know for sure.

It’s not affecting her much yet, she just snores and when we were drawing blood she got a bad attitude and it made her wheezy. We can’t medicate for that yet bc the meds would upset her pancreatitis. So if we get the pancreatitis under control we can start medicating her for that.

Her bloodwork does show that she has some kind of cancer. I’m not going to chase after what kind it is because that would require a bone marrow test. Which is both painful and expensive. I’m not interested in putting a 20 year old cat through chemo, that would just be unfair to her, so ultimately it doesn’t make much of a difference what kind of cancer she actually has. It would just give me an idea of how quickly to expect things to progress. While that would be awesome to know, I don’t think it’s worth putting her through the testing.

We’re going to start by treating all the things we can and monitoring her for signs of any other issues. Definitely not what I was expecting to come from today. I figured there was a chance she’d have something small like hypertension or something, but definitely not for her to be falling apart all at once.

[queerheadcanoncentral]

Request from @gfuudb

"House and Wilson: so its like an episode of house execpt its Wilson treating a patient but he suddenly pukes blood and then collapses and then its a lil time skip of like 10 minutes and its House storming in to his office and raises his voice as he tells everyone what happened to Wilson and that their taking the case so he’s frantically having the team (of your choice whether its the original three or the second ones or a mix) give him ideas ect. And it ends in fluff pls"

(It's my first time writing anything like that so I'm sorry if it's a bit rough. Also all the medical information is from only one article to it's probably not medically accurate)

—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—⁠☆—

It was a slow morning for everyone. Especially for Wilson. No face to face meetings with patients, just some prescription renewals and an email consult or two.

Everything was going great, except a slight cough that didn't seem to want to leave him, even House hasn’t bothered him today yet.

As he was looking over an email a strong coughing fit hit him, when it subsided his stomach was turning, he got up to get another mug of water and the room started to spin, he felt the acidic saliva build up in his mouth and the contents of his stomach emptied out of him. Just for a brief second he managed to notice that the liquid on the floor was a copperish red color, before it all went dark.

“You’ll never guess what cuddy is wearing toda- Wilson?” Whether House walked in at the right moment or not is up for debate, because he did probably save his life but oh boy is he not going to let go of the position that he found Wilson in, with his ass up and his face flat on the carpet.

He promptly walked out of Wilson's office and into his own. “Cutner, Taub. Go help Wilson in his office.” If you didn’t know House you’d probably think that he is an asshole for not immediately running to help his beloved friend. But letting someone else, someone more physically able, take care of Wilson while he figures out what’s wrong with him is the best thing he could do right now. “What’s the differential for vomiting blood and loss of consciousness? Go.” “Wait, is this about Wilson? Shouldn’t we help him?” “Yes, that’s why I sent Taub and Cutner there, and we can help him even more if we figure out what’s wrong with him. Symptoms! Go!” “Could be stomach cancer,” said Thirteen. “Or pancreatic.” added Foreman. "Or esophageal.” “Good test him for cancer markers.”

“Hi Thirteen." “Oh, you’re awake. That’s good. Just need to draw some blood.” “What are you testing me for?” There was a moment of silence. The air was thick and Wilson already knew the answer. “You’re looking for cancer. That would be ironic. Spent my entire life fighting it just to end up dying from it.” “It might not be it. We’re just exploring all the possibilities.” “Yeah, yeah, I know how it goes. I’ve done this a million times.” “Has House visited you?” “No he hasn’t. And he probably won't, at least I hope that he doesn’t, because that would mean that he gave up on me.”

There isn’t much that you can do in a situation like this except sit around and pray that it isn’t the worst.

“It’s negative for all cancer markers.” The atmosphere in House’s office is gloom. The lights are off with the exception of his desk lamp. House caught his ball that he was playing with and looked up at Thirteen. “We need to biopsy. Tell Chase to get the OR ready.”

During the operation the whole team was anxiously waiting in their office. Altho they didn’t talk to or interact with Wilson all that much they still cared about him. Whether it’s because of the proximity of having their offices share a wall or because he was their bosses best friend, it doesn’t seem to matter. So when Case finally walked into their office they shot out of the seats and House came in from his, where he was locked for basically the whole day.

“Did any of you check his stomach before you ordered the biopsy?” “No, we just checked his blood for cancer markers.” answered Thirteen. “It wasn’t cancer. It’s just some peptic ulcers.” with that he left.

There was a stunned silence that was broken by- “YOU IDIOTS! You didn’t check his stomach!?” “You just told us to run a blood panel” “I’m not talking about you! I’m talking about those two idiots who don’t know that when you check in a patient with GI issues the first thing you do is look into their stomach!” “We’re so sorr-” Taub didn’t manage to finish his sentence because House was already out the door on his way to Wilson.

When Wilson woke up after his surgery, the first thing he saw was a pair of extremely blue eyes staring right into his soul… but lovingly? “How are you feeling?” “Good. Like I was hit by a bus... so is it cancer?” “No. It’s just an ulcer. They got it fixed right away.” He breathed a sigh of relief. But he had one more question on his mind. “Then why did I pass out?” “Your body was too weak to handle the strain of vomiting. You weren’t eating enough lately because it felt like something was chewing through your stomach, which it was.” “So I just take some pills and I’ll be fine.” “A while of IV nutrition first but after that,” Wilson felt House's hand on his and he intertwined their fingers with a relaxed smile. “,yeah. You’ll be fine.”

Bonus:

After Wilson gets off the IV and can eat regular food, House always makes sure that he eats a few times a day and asks if he has any symptoms to make check that the ulcer isn't coming back.

If they are hanging out at House’s place, he cooks food for him that won’t upset his stomach.

[firstprince-ao3feed]

Take my hand take my whole life too...

by Justsomehowexistingidekhow “Please don't give me a fright, please tell me” his hand which is not holding Alex's is currently shaking, he's practically vibrating right now. She sighs and looks at the documents “We've run a few tests and some blood work as a precautionary measure, and I need you to listen to me carefully” Or The fic where Alex has pancreatic cancer. Inspired by the movie, 'Spoiler alert: the hero dies' Words: 5165, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English Fandoms: Red White & Royal Blue - Casey McQuiston Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Major Character Death Categories: M/M Characters: Alex Claremont-Diaz, Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Oscar Diaz (Red White & Royal Blue), Ellen Claremont, Nora Holleran, June Claremont-Diaz, Percy "Pez" Okonjo Relationships: Alex Claremont-Diaz/Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Additional Tags: Major Illness, Cancer, Character Death, Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Loves Alex Claremont-Diaz, POV Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Needs a Hug, Alex Claremont-Diaz Needs a Hug, supportive parents, Angst, Fluffy, really fucking fluffy, I Might Need A Hug, idk how to tag, Dead Dove: Do Not Eat, Married FirstPrince, Christmas fic, Did I Say Fluffy?, Crying, Heartbreak, no beta we die like arthur fox, Henry misses Alex, Henry misses his father, Depiction of Death, Sad, Original Character - Freeform via https://ift.tt/tBEg0Ui

[tsuchinokoroyale]

Wait what, give us the cancer cell fun facts king

Sure thang 😎 Before I get into pancreatic cancer, let’s talk about lumps. One method of early tumor detection everyone should be periodically practicing is feeling yourself up for lumps. You should really get to know your testes if you got ‘em and it’s my scientific opinion that everyone should be feeling up their own chestes anyways, but it’s also good to do it on purpose to detect any abnormality as soon as possible.

What’s in a lump exactly? A healthy human body is a mix of many different cell types, and tumors are no different. I’m going to mostly correctly breakdown the various cell types as cells that do things/Epithelial cells, the in-betweeny/structurally important cells/Mesenchymal cells, and the blood cells where you got your cute lil red blood cells and immune cells. The interaction of all these cells forms something like an ecosystem, which we refer to as a microenvironment. Solid cancers arise from cells in tissues that lose the ability to die and/or gain the ability to keep dividing, so it makes sense that a lot of cell types present in the healthy microenvironment would be present in the tumor microenvironment/TME. However, the function of these cells have been found to be radically altered by the cancer cells in order to promote tumor growth and survival.

The pancreatic cancer lump is notable for two reasons: it is HARD and it is almost entirely made up of non-pancreatic cancer cells, with up to 90% of the tumor volume being non-cancer cells. A healthy pancreas is made up almost entirely of acinar cells which secrete digestive enzymes into the intestine, with some specialized regions for maintaining blood sugar levels. The pancreatic cancer TME on the other hand is an absolute circus. The lump is hard because the cancer has rewired certain mesenchymal cells to continuously churn out structural proteins, creating this densely fibrous netting which leads to drug permeability issues. There’s an influx of immune cells that should be performing anti-cancer duties but have instead been rewired to suppress immune responses. In order to prevent auto-immunity, the body’s own immune system targeting itself, there are various mechanisms by which the immune system will propagate a STOP response. The cancer cells adopt this process, secreting signals to override any productive immune response and push immune cells to suppress immune responses instead. As much as I’d love to get into the specifics and controversies of myCAFs, iCAFs, MDSCs, TAMs, Th1/2/17/regulatory CD4 family, and my poor downtrodden CD8 T cell babies, this post is already pretty long and I’m retired anyways 😮‍💨

in case anyone feels like reading the actual science version of this

[mit]

An implantable device could enable injection-free control of diabetes

The device contains encapsulated cells that produce insulin, plus a tiny oxygen-producing factory that keeps the cells healthy.

Anne Trafton | MIT News

One promising approach to treating Type 1 diabetes is implanting pancreatic islet cells that can produce insulin when needed, which can free patients from giving themselves frequent insulin injections. However, one major obstacle to this approach is that once the cells are implanted, they eventually run out of oxygen and stop producing insulin.

To overcome that hurdle, MIT engineers have designed a new implantable device that not only carries hundreds of thousands of insulin-producing islet cells, but also has its own on-board oxygen factory, which generates oxygen by splitting water vapor found in the body.

The researchers showed that when implanted into diabetic mice, this device could keep the mice’s blood glucose levels stable for at least a month. The researchers now hope to create a larger version of the device, about the size of a stick of chewing gum, that could eventually be tested in people with Type 1 diabetes.

“You can think of this as a living medical device that is made from human cells that secrete insulin, along with an electronic life support-system. We’re excited by the progress so far, and we really are optimistic that this technology could end up helping patients,” says Daniel Anderson, a professor in MIT’s Department of Chemical Engineering, a member of MIT’s Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research and Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (IMES), and the senior author of the study.

While the researchers’ main focus is on diabetes treatment, they say that this kind of device could also be adapted to treat other diseases that require repeated delivery of therapeutic proteins.

MIT Research Scientist Siddharth Krishnan is the lead author of the paper, which appears today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The research team also includes several other researchers from MIT, including Robert Langer, the David H. Koch Institute Professor at MIT and a member of the Koch Institute, as well as researchers from Boston Children’s Hospital.

Replacing injections

Most patients with Type 1 diabetes have to monitor their blood glucose levels carefully and inject themselves with insulin at least once a day. However, this process doesn’t replicate the body’s natural ability to control blood glucose levels.

“The vast majority of diabetics that are insulin-dependent are injecting themselves with insulin, and doing their very best, but they do not have healthy blood sugar levels,” Anderson says. “If you look at their blood sugar levels, even for people that are very dedicated to being careful, they just can’t match what a living pancreas can do.”

A better alternative would be to transplant cells that produce insulin whenever they detect surges in the patient’s blood glucose levels. Some diabetes patients have received transplanted islet cells from human cadavers, which can achieve long-term control of diabetes; however, these patients have to take immunosuppressive drugs to prevent their body from rejecting the implanted cells.

More recently, researchers have shown similar success with islet cells derived from stem cells, but patients who receive those cells also need to take immunosuppressive drugs.

Another possibility, which could prevent the need for immunosuppressive drugs, is to encapsulate the transplanted cells within a flexible device that protects the cells from the immune system. However, finding a reliable oxygen supply for these encapsulated cells has proven challenging.

Some experimental devices, including one that has been tested in clinical trials, feature an oxygen chamber that can supply the cells, but this chamber needs to be reloaded periodically. Other researchers have developed implants that include chemical reagents that can generate oxygen, but these also run out eventually.

The MIT team took a different approach that could potentially generate oxygen indefinitely, by splitting water. This is done using a proton-exchange membrane — a technology originally deployed to generate hydrogen in fuel cells — located within the device. This membrane can split water vapor (found abundantly in the body) into hydrogen, which diffuses harmlessly away, and oxygen, which goes into a storage chamber that feeds the islet cells through a thin, oxygen-permeable membrane.

A significant advantage of this approach is that it does not require any wires or batteries. Splitting this water vapor requires a small voltage (about 2 volts), which is generated using a phenomenon known as resonant inductive coupling. A tuned magnetic coil located outside the body transmits power to a small, flexible antenna within the device, allowing for wireless power transfer. It does require an external coil, which the researchers anticipate could be worn as a patch on the patient’s skin.

Drugs on demand

After building their device, which is about the size of a U.S. quarter, the researchers tested it in diabetic mice. One group of mice received the device with the oxygen-generating, water-splitting membrane, while the other received a device that contained islet cells without any supplemental oxygen. The devices were implanted just under the skin, in mice with fully functional immune systems.

The researchers found that mice implanted with the oxygen-generating device were able to maintain normal blood glucose levels, comparable to healthy animals. However, mice that received the nonoxygenated device became hyperglycemic (with elevated blood sugar) within about two weeks.

Typically when any kind of medical device is implanted in the body, attack by the immune system leads to a buildup of scar tissue called fibrosis, which can reduce the devices’ effectiveness. This kind of scar tissue did form around the implants used in this study, but the device’s success in controlling blood glucose levels suggests that insulin was still able to diffuse out of the device, and glucose into it.

This approach could also be used to deliver cells that produce other types of therapeutic proteins that need to be given over long periods of time. In this study, the researchers showed that the device could also keep alive cells that produce erythropoietin, a protein that stimulates red blood cell production.

“We’re optimistic that it will be possible to make living medical devices that can reside in the body and produce drugs as needed,” Anderson says. “There are a variety of diseases where patients need to take proteins exogenously, sometimes very frequently. If we can replace the need for infusions every other week with a single implant that can act for a long time, I think that could really help a lot of patients.”

The researchers now plan to adapt the device for testing in larger animals and eventually humans. For human use, they hope to develop an implant that would be about the size of a stick of chewing gum. They also plan to test whether the device can remain in the body for longer periods of time.

“The materials we’ve used are inherently stable and long-lived, so I think that kind of long-term operation is within the realm of possibility, and that’s what we’re working on,” Krishnan says.

“We are very excited about these findings, which we believe could provide a whole new way of someday treating diabetes and possibly other diseases,” Langer adds.

The research was funded by JDRF, the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, and the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering at the National Institutes of Health.

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[hardware-sparks]

found poem i made after reading Exposure. it can be read two ways.

[Text ID continued: The unhighlighted words read: Warning: Contains a chemical which can cause cancer. / A reaction aid in the production of polytetrafluorothylene and tetrafluoroethylene co-polymers. / The CAT Team findings support DuPont's position that the presence of PFOA at the low levels defected to date in drinking water in the Mid-Ohio Valley is not harmful. / Cumulative liver, kidney, and pancreatic changes can be induced in young rats by relatively low doses of PFOA. / Q: Is FC-143 harmful? A: The issue is concentration - how much and when. Animal studies with rats have demonstrated that it is slightly to moderately toxic. / We do know that it does not readily decompose, react, or break down. … It is expelled from the body slowly. / [bullet point] Never told Cattle Team and EPA about C8 in the stream. / We have not seen any negative effects on human health or the environment at the levels of exposure at which we operate. / We continued to increase our emissions into the river in spite of internal commitments to reduce or eliminate the release of this chemical into the community. / 14. Q: If the stuff is not harmful, why are you spending money to reduce air and water emissions? / [bullet point] C8 in the stream and we never told them. / A: … Even though the material has no known ill effects, it is our intent to minimize exposure which could cause concern associated with accumulation in the blood. / We remain that DuPont acted reasonably and responsibly at each stage in the long history of PFOA, placing a high priority on the safety of workers and community members. / Orally, it was claimed to be "slightly toxic"; with skin exposure, "slightly to moderately toxic"; and inhaled, it was "highly toxic". / There has been no adverse effect on employee health associated with FC-143 exposure. / There has been no adverse effect on employee health at these levels. / There is no evidence or data that demonstrates PFOA causes adverse human health effects. Many studies on the toxicology of PFOA lead us and others to conclude that the compound is safe for all segments of the population. / We are confident when we say that the facts, the scientific facts, demonstrate that the material is perfectly safe to use. / …indicate there's nothing to worry about. No human health effects. / Consensus is that the death was PFOA related. / There are a number of different exposure routes. …through inhalation. It can be absorbed through your skin to a limited amount, but inhalation is still by far more important. Then of course you could be exposed through ingestion, and that would be the drinking water. / Pose a risk to human health and the environment. / DuPont had always complied with all FDA regulations and standards regarding these products. / There is no evidence of adverse human health effects. / 20. Q: Is C8 carcinogenic? A: There is no evidence that C8 causes cancer in humans. Tests with laboratory animals demonstrated a slight increase in benign testicular tumors. / PFOA is not a human carcinogen and there are no known health effects associated with PFOA. In fact, the more we PFOA, … conclusions that PFOA is safe. / No known ill effects which could be attributed to those chemicals or C8 have been detected among employees in more than 20 years of experience with the products. / We've never had any adverse health effects from PFOA. / Persistence does not equal harm. Just because PFOA can cause kidney cancer doesn't mean that it caused Mrs. Barlett's kidney cancer.

The highlighted words read: Contains a chemical which can cause cancer. / low levels detected in the drinking water is not harmful / Cumulative liver, kidney, and pancreatic changes can be induced by relatively low doses of PFOA. / Is FC-143 harmful? studies have demonstrated that it is slightly to moderately toxic. / it does not readily decompose, react, or break down / negative effects on human health or environment at the levels at we operate. / continued to increase our emissions into the river / internal commitments to reduce or eliminate the release of this chemical in the community / never told them / known ill effects could cause concerns associated with accumulation in the blood / DuPont acted reasonably and responsibly, placing a high priority on the safety of workers and community members / Orally, "slightly toxic" / Skin exposure, "slightly to moderately toxic" / Inhaled, "highly toxic" / adverse effect on employee health associated with FC-143 exposure / no adverse health effect on employee health / no evidence or data PFOA causes adverse human health effects. PFOA is safe for all segments of the population. / No human health effects / Death was PFOA related / There are a number of different exposure routes. inhalation far more important. exposed through ingestion, the drinking water / Risk to human health and the environment / DuPont has complied with all FDA regulations and standards / No evidence adverse human health effects / Is C8 carcinogenic? / There is evidence that C8 causes cancer in humans. Tests demonstrated a slight increase in benign testicular tumors. / PFOA is not a human carcinogen, there are no known health effects. PFOA is safe. / known ill effects could be attributed to those chemicals or C8 among employees in 20 years of experience with the products. / We've had adverse health effects from PFOA. / Persistence does not equal harm. PFOA can cause kidney cancer. It caused Mrs. Barlett's kidney cancer. End Text ID.

[theodoretheninja]

So we had a coworker (there's only 8 of us so pretty close knit) call in sick about 3 weeks ago. He wound up in the hospital with blood clots in his legs. From there, they realized he needed back surgery. After further testing, they found he had pancreatic cancer. They found that out on Tuesday. He passed away today. He was late 40's, early 50's as far as I know. I'm not the praying type, but if you are, I'm sure his family would appreciate one.

Hug your loved ones and count your blessings. Life is short and you never know when it's your time.

Rest in peace, Brian. I didn't know you for a long time, but you were a good guy to know regardless.

[darlingknave]

I don’t really wanna talk about it but I need to tell a couple of folks what’s going on.

I’m not actively dying, but I’m not doing too good. I’ve got some tests on Tuesday to start checking me for pancreatic cancer and so far, according to the labs and such, it’s not great. There’s something Horribly Wrong with my pancreas and possibly (probably) my liver but nobody seems to want to say the C word. I’ve got a CT with contrast, abdominal ultrasound, and more labs this Tuesday and then they’ll talk about doing a biopsy or going in for a closer look.

My blood counts are way down. I’m just not making enough RBCs and platelets to keep going. Hit my knee yesterday (the day before?) on the edge of my desk and this giant balloon happened and I had to mash on it for half an hour to get it to stop. Like when you get blood drawn and a vein blows, and it eggs up, but huge

I’m more than a little freaked out. I’ve gone to the doc twice this month already. We can’t afford this. This is gonna delay my gut stuff. If it’s the Really Bad thing, will they just never put me back together?

Meanwhile I’m still dropping weight and losing hair. I let it grow out a bit so I’m noticing more and more falling out. Probably gonna just buzz it instead of going for the undercut I wanted so I stop noticing the difference between me losing hair and the cats shedding.

I don’t have a sense of impending doom so maybe it’s not that bad. There’s a chance it’s a stone trapped in a duct leftover from when they snatched out my gallbladder a few years back. Gonna hope that’s all it is. The GI and the surgeon seem to disagree on that. The GI thinks it’s the stone, the surgeon keeps bringing up biopsies. I’m gonna let the GI do this thing Tuesday and hope a stone shows up somewhere on some result.

Thing is, that really wouldn’t cause the kind of trouble I’m having. Not to the extent I’m having it. I’m not malnourished enough for organ failure either but I brought up a possible port for TPN. Better to float the idea early on and give them time to consider the option.

Anyway, fingers crossed. If I’m very lucky it’s an easy fix.

[tamanna31]

New Study: 2024-2030 In Vitro Diagnostics Market Trend and Forecast Report

In Vitro Diagnostics Industry Overview

The global in vitro diagnostics (IVD) market size was estimated at USD 77.92 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2024 to 2030. The growth can be attributed to increasing adoption of IVD owing to a rise in the incidence of infectious and chronic diseases. The development of automated IVD systems for laboratories and hospitals to provide efficient, accurate, and error-free diagnoses is expected to fuel market growth. The rising number of IVD products being launched by key players is also fueling market growth. For instance, in November 2023, ARUP Laboratories received a CE mark from EU-IVDR for AAV5 DetectCDx, a companion diagnostic to select the eligibility of severe hemophilia A-affected patients for BioMarin’s new gene therapy, Roctavian.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the In Vitro Diagnostics Market

Technological advancements in terms of accuracy, portability, and cost-effectiveness are expected to be one of the high-impact rendering drivers of this market. Introduction of novel and highly accurate clinical laboratory tests is boosting the adoption of novel IVD tests worldwide. In June 2023, Toray Industries, Inc. received marketing approval from Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare for its Toray APOA2-iTQ used to diagnose pancreatic cancer. Moreover, in March 2023, Abbott received U.S. FDA clearance for its novel laboratory Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) blood test in the U.S. Increasing approvals of IVD tests for life-threatening diseases are expected to create new opportunities in the untapped market.

Key players in the market undertake various strategies to strengthen their position and offer their customers diverse, technologically advanced & innovative products. New product launches and partnerships are the most prominently adopted by companies to attract more customers. For instance, in March 2023, BD received 510(k) clearance for BD Vaginal Panel on the BD COR System to detect infectious causes of vaginitis. In August 2023, the Precision Medicine Centre (PMC) formed a partnership with the Regional Molecular Diagnostic Service (RMDS) to implement genomic technology for the diagnosis of cancer in Northern Ireland.

Favorable initiatives undertaken by government and non-government bodies to improve overall healthcare services are anticipated to increase market growth. In October 2023, the WHO published the Essential Diagnostics List (EDL), a comprehensive list of IVD products that helps countries make decisions regarding diagnostic tools. It provides evidence-based recommendations and ensures the accessibility of essential products for target people. Moreover, in August 2023, the Africa CDC collaborated with the Africa Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa's Development (AUDA-NEPAD) to increase access to diagnostic tests across Africa. Such initiatives are expected to boost market growth.

A rise in the geriatric population and growth in knowledge regarding early testing have led to a surge in the number of regular check-ups, as a majority of deaths due to infections and chronic conditions occur in the population aged over 75 years. As per the Office for Budget Responsibility, UK, healthcare costs have risen exponentially, which can create economic pressure on nations with rapidly growing geriatric population. However, this expenditure is anticipated to translate positively for the IVD industry, driving market growth.

Browse through Grand View Research's Clinical Diagnostics Industry Research Reports.

• The global point of care infectious disease testing market size was valued at USD 11.40 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2024 to 2030.

• The global transplant diagnostics market size was valued at USD 5.97 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2024 to 2030.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some of the key players operating in the in vitro diagnostics market include F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.; Abbott; Quest Diagnostics Inc.; and Danaher. Market players are adopting various strategies, such as new product launches, mergers & acquisitions, and partnerships, to strengthen their product portfolios and offer diverse technologically advanced & innovative products.

Llusern Scientific, Biocartis Group NV, ARUP Laboratories, Veracyte, and Exact Sciences Corp are some of the emerging market participants in the market. Emerging companies are actively involved in developing novel and accurate IVD testing products to improve overall health services. Moreover, these companies are collaborating with research institutes, government bodies, and global leaders to increase the range of their products in potential markets.

Key In Vitro Diagnostics (IVD) Companies

Abbott

bioMérieux SA

QuidelOrtho Corporation

Siemens Healthineers AG

Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.

Qiagen

Sysmex Corporation

Charles River Laboratories

Quest Diagnostics Incorporated

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

Danaher Corporation

BD

F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd

Recent Developments

In December 2023, ARUP Laboratories and Medicover collaborated to provide diagnostic and healthcare services in Europe. ARUP Laboratories has developed AAV5 DetectCDx in collaboration with BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc. to select therapies for severe hemophilia A patients

In November 2023, Veracyte joined Illumina to develop molecular tests for decentralized IVD applications. Companies are focusing on the development of Prosigna breast cancer and Percepta nasal swab tests of Veracyte

In October 2023, Promega Corporation announced its plan to develop and commercialize companion diagnostics kits with GSK Plc to identify cancer patients with MSI-H solid tumors

In February 2023, Unilabs announced investing over USD 200 million in Siemens Healthineers' technology and acquiring more than 400 laboratory analyzers to strengthen its laboratory infrastructure

In February 2023, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. collaborated with Janssen Biotech Inc. to develop companion diagnostics for targeted therapies. Companion diagnostic technologies include digital pathology, NGS, PCR, immunoassays, and immunohistochemistry

Order a free sample PDF of the In Vitro Diagnostics Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

[drmsskeerthi]

How to Detect Cancer If You Don’t Have any Symptoms

Cancer is a word that can stir up a lot of fear and queries, especially when it comes to the idea of having it without knowing. It’s natural to wonder if you could be living with a cancerous tumor without any obvious signals, or if it’s possible to discover cancer before symptoms appear. According to Dr. M.S.S. Keerthi, a top cancer specialist in Hyderabad, multiple diseases can develop quietly, showing no symptoms until they’ve progressed to a more advanced stage. Still, with the right knowledge and visionary measures, you can boost your chances of catching cancer before, even if you feel perfectly healthy. In this article, we’ll explore how certain cancers can go undetected, the importance of regular screenings, and what you can do to stay one step ahead in defending your health.

Understanding Symptomatic vs. Asymptomatic Cancer:

Cancer can be either symptomatic or asymptomatic. symptomatic diseases are those that present obvious signals or symptoms early on, like a patient cough, unexplained weight loss, or a lump that can be felt. Dr. M.S.S. Keerthi surgical oncologist in Kompally suggests these symptoms prompt people to seek medical concentration, leading to a diagnosis.

Asymptomatic cancers, on the other phase, develop without any conspicuous symptoms, especially in the early stages. This makes them more delicate to determine until they’ve progressed to a more improved stage. Multiple common cancers can be asymptomatic at first, which is why regular screenings are consequently required.

Types of Cancers That May Go Undetected:

Some cancers are more likely to go unnoticed in their early stages, making regular screenings and checks of vital

Testicular Cancer: Men can frequently go a long time without witnessing symptoms. Regular self-examinations can support discovering a lump early on, but it’s not constantly reliable.

Cervical Cancer: is frequently asymptomatic until improved stages. Regular Pap smears can discover precancerous cells, allowing for early intervention.

Pancreatic Cancer: Known for its subtle early symptoms, which frequently go unnoticed until the cancer is developed, leading to low survival rates.

Breast Cancer: Early-stage breast cancer might not present obvious symptoms, but regular mammograms and self-examinations can assist in discovering it early.

Prostate Cancer: Generally symptomless in the early stages. A PSA test, a portion of routine blood work, can help detect it early.

Ovarian Cancer: Symptoms are frequently subtle and nonspecific, like bloating or abdominal pain, and do not appear until the cancer is more improved.

Lung Cancer: frequently detected in improved stages when symptoms like patient cough or coughing up blood appear. Regular check-ups are crucial for at-risk individuals.

Skin Cancer: slight changes in moles or spots on the face can be early signals, indeed if you feel fine otherwise. Regular skin checks are important.

Why Regular Screenings Are Crucial?

According to Dr. MSS Keerthi, a renowned cancer doctor in Kushaiguda, some cancers don’t show symptoms until they’re advanced, routine screenings are a powerful tool for early detection. Here’s how various cancers are typically detected:

Breast Cancer: Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early, even before a lump can be felt.

Cervical Cancer: Regular Pap smears can discover abnormal cells before they turn into cancer.

Colon Cancer: Colonoscopies are effective in finding precancerous cysts and early-stage colon cancer.

Prostate Cancer: PSA blood tests can indicate the presence of prostate cancer indeed when symptoms are not present.

Skin Cancer: Dermatologist exams and self-checks can help catch skin cancer early.

The Importance of Early Detection:

Early discovery of cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. For example, the 5- year survival rate for localized breast and prostate cancer is nearly 100%. When melanoma, a type of skin cancer, is diagnosed early, the 5- year survival rate is about 99%.

However, not all cancers have routine screening guidelines, making it harder to catch them early. That’s why it’s important to:

Keep Up With Regular Check-Ups: Annual physicals and routine race work can support catching any abnormalities early on.

Report New Symptoms: Indeed if they feel minor, new symptoms should be talked over with your doctor.

Know Your Blood History: If certain diseases run in your blood, talk to your doctor about before or more constant screenings.

When to See a Doctor?

Certain signs should prompt an immediate visit to your doctor, even if you generally feel fine:

Coughing up blood

Blood in stools or urine

A new lump anywhere on your body

Unexplained weight loss

Severe, unexplained pain in any part of your body

Sharing your medical history, any new symptoms, and family history with your doctor can help in making a diagnosis or ruling out cancer as the cause.

Conclusion:

Early discovery is pivotal in the fight against cancer, and Dr. M.S.S. Keerthi, an oncologist in Hyderabad, is here to support you and take visionary steps. With over 15+ years of experience in advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgeries, Dr. M.S.S. Keerthi offers expert care to ensure cancers are detected prematurely, even before symptoms appear. Do not wait — protect your health by booking an appointment with Dr. M.S.S. Keerthi today, and take control of your well-being with personalized, compassionate care

[jacksandy28]

Ayurveda and Yoga therapy treatment for Gall bladder stones

 Gall bladder stones: Gall stones are the hard deposited digestive waste or fluids in the gall bladder. It is also named as cholelithiasis. Gall bladder is a pear shape of sac present in the right hypochondrium of abdomen just beneath the liver. The size and number of gall stones may vary from person to person.

Causes

The correct cause for gallstones is unknown, but experts mention that followings may lead to gall stones.

Digestive fluid (bile) may contains high cholesterol or bilirubin

Improper metabolism

Gall bladder doesn't get proper elimination

Family history of gallstones

Underlying liver disease

Antibiotics

Stress and emotional disturbance

Symptoms

Sudden and strong pain in the abdomen, more on right side

Nausea or vomiting

Loss of appetite

Pain in shoulder or upper back

Color of urine changes

Stomach upset

Fever or chills

Types of gallstones

Cholesterol gallstones - Undissolved cholesterol makes the yellow colored stones in gall bladder.

Pigment gallstones - Increased bilirubin of bile makes the dark colored stones.

Mixed composition stones.

Risk factors

Obesity

Wrong food habits

Increased intake of fat, cholesterol or animal products

High triglycerides

Women after 40 years

Sedentary lifestyle

Diabetes

Other metabolic disorders

Complications

Severe abdominal pain

Shoulder pain

Back pain

Chest pain

Nausea, vomiting

Bloating

Diagnosis

Imaging tests include. MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound, cholescintigraphy etc.

Differential diagnosis

Appendicitis

Peptic ulcer disease

Pancreatic cancer

Gallbladder cancer

Chole cystitis

Bileduct strictures or tumors

Management Through Natural therapies

Heliotherapy or sun bath: Sun bath is one of the best methods to clear the bile retention, gall bladder hypertrophy and poor gallbladder emptying. It also reduces stress and helps in developing positive mental health.

Hydrotherapy: Gastro hepatic pack including the hot fomentation bag to abdomen and cold compress to back region is the effective method to relieve the pain and influence the function of abdominal organs. Cold water enema is one of the detoxifying methods which relieves pain and other symptoms.

Mud bath: Mud is believed to dilute and absorb toxic substances of the body ultimately eliminate them from the body. Studies recommend mud application to influence bile secretion and assimilation of bile stones.

Fasting & Diet therapy: Fasting for 4-6 days has been shown to reduce the proportion of cholesterol in gall bladder bile. This indicates a possible lipotropic effect of fasting which can be effectively helped in treating gallstones. Fasting also will help in reducing the cholesterol production in the body.Increased intake of high fiber and other vegetables are very good to reduce the formation of gallstones. Dietary fiber also reduces the production of deoxycholic acid and thereby enhances the solubility of cholesterol in bile. Non-vegetarian food and animal products should be avoided to reduce the risk and complications.

Acupuncture: It is a traditional Chinese method which believes in Qi (energy) circulation. Some of the acupuncture points will help in energizing the Qi and blood circulation to gall bladder and remove the stasis. Acupuncture will also help in managing the abdominal pain.

Yoga therapy: Regular yoga practice is the one of the best methods to prevent gallstones and to restore the health of gall bladder. Postures like padahastasana, kati chakrasana, paschimottanasana, pawana muktasana, bhujangasana, bow pose(dhanurasana) and other twisting poses will help in improving the blood circulation & function of abdominal organs. Breathing exercises, relaxation techniques and Pranayama will always help in relaxing body, mind and their by reduces stress and depression

Ayurveda also offers treatment for Gall stones. Polyherbal combinations containing hers such as Katuki, Bhumyamalaki, Pashanabheda are very effective in the treatment of gall stones.They work on the basis of eliminating the excess pitta, reducing the metabolic waste (Ama) and thus providing relief in the signs and symptoms.

Article By : Dr.Anitha

[sassysuitdonut]

Understanding Common Genetic Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Genetic abnormalities result from changes or irregularities in an organism’s genome. These abnormalities can stem from mutations in one gene or several genes, as well as variations in the number or composition of chromosomes. Certain genetic disorders are congenital, meaning they are present at birth, while others are acquired as a result of mutations in specific genes. Inherited genetic disorders, like cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, and sickle cell anemia, are passed down from parents. On the other hand, genetic disorders acquired during one’s lifetime are not inherited and can be caused by random mutations or exposure to various factors such as chemicals, environments, or radiation like cigarette smoke or UV rays. Cancer is a prime example of a disease that can be acquired in this manner.

In this blog, we can see some of the common genetic disorders, and its symptoms and treatments.

Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21). This extra genetic material affects development.

The main symptoms are characteristic facial features (flattened face, almond-shaped eyes), intellectual disability, developmental delays, and potential heart defects. There is no cure for Down syndrome, but early intervention, educational programs, and therapies (speech, occupational, physical) can help improve skills. Regular medical care is necessary to manage associated health issues.

Cystic Fibrosis

Caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat, and digestive juices. The secretions become thick and sticky, causing blockages.

Symptoms are persistent coughing, frequent lung infections, wheezing, difficulty breathing, poor growth, and fatty stools.

Treatments include chest physiotherapy, medications to thin mucus, antibiotics to prevent infections, pancreatic enzyme supplements, and a high-calorie diet. In severe cases, lung transplants may be considered.

Multifactorial Genetic Inheritance

This phenomenon is also referred to as polygenic inheritance. It arises due to a combination of environmental factors and gene mutations. Several disorders exemplify this type of inheritance, including: Heart disease, High blood pressure, Alzheimer’s disease, Obesity, Diabetes, Cancer, and Arthritis.

Sickle Cell Anemia

Caused by a mutation in the HBB gene, leading to the production of abnormal hemoglobin (hemoglobin S). This causes red blood cells to become rigid and sickle-shaped.

Symptoms are anemia, episodes of pain (crises), frequent infections, delayed growth, and vision problems. Treatments are pain management, blood transfusions, hydroxyurea (to reduce the frequency of pain crises), and bone marrow transplants in severe cases. Gene therapy is being researched as a potential cure.

Methods To Test Genetic Disorders

Genetic Counseling: Provides information and support to families at risk of genetic disorders. Helps understand inheritance patterns, testing options, and implications.

Prenatal Testing: Can identify certain genetic disorders before birth. Techniques include amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling (CVS), and non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT).

Newborn Screening: Identifies genetic disorders early in life, allowing for prompt treatment. Tests for conditions like PKU and cystic fibrosis are common.

Gene Therapy: Emerging treatment aimed at correcting defective genes. It’s still largely experimental but holds promise for conditions like cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia.

Understanding and managing genetic disorders involves a multi-faceted approach that includes medical intervention, supportive therapies, and ongoing research to develop new treatments. Early detection and personalized care are crucial in improving outcomes for individuals with genetic disorders.

[sa7abnews]

These 17 cancer types are more common in Gen X and millennials, as study notes 'alarming trend'

New Post has been published on https://sa7ab.info/2024/08/09/these-17-cancer-types-are-more-common-in-gen-x-and-millennials-as-study-notes-alarming-trend/

These 17 cancer types are more common in Gen X and millennials, as study notes 'alarming trend'

Certain types of cancers are more prevalent among Gen X and millennials, according to a new study led by the American Cancer Society (ACS).The study, published in the journal The Lancet Public Health, analyzed data from over 23 million patients who were diagnosed with 34 different types of cancer over two decades.The patients ranged in age from 25 to 84, representing multiple generations.RISKS, SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENTS FOR LUNG CANCER, THE DEADLIEST CANCER IN THE WORLDResearchers found that the prevalence of small intestine cancer, kidney cancer and pancreatic cancer was two to three times higher in those born in 1990 than those born in 1955 for both males and females, and for liver cancer in females, according to an ACS press release.Rates were also higher among younger groups for breast cancer (estrogen-receptor positive), uterine cancer, colorectal cancer, non-cardia gastric cancer, gallbladder cancer, ovarian cancer, testicular cancer, anal cancer in males and Kaposi sarcoma in males, the study found. Other cancers that were more prevalent in younger groups included myeloma, leukemia, cardia gastric cancer, and non-HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer (in women).ASPIRIN MAY BE LINKED TO LOWER RISK OF COLORECTAL CANCER, NEW STUDY SUGGESTSDeath rates also rose among younger groups for liver cancer (females), gallbladder cancer, uterine cancer, testicular cancer and colorectal cancer.”These findings add to growing evidence of increased cancer risk in post-baby boomer generations, expanding on previous findings of early-onset colorectal cancer and a few obesity-associated cancers to encompass a broader range of cancer types,” said Dr. Hyuna Sung, lead author of the study and a senior principal scientist of surveillance and health equity science at the American Cancer Society, in the ACS release. “Birth cohorts, groups of people classified by their birth year, share unique social, economic, political and climate environments, which affect their exposure to cancer risk factors during their crucial developmental years.”While researchers have identified some cancer trends associated with certain age groups, they don’t yet have a clear explanation for why these rates are rising, Sung added.ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE DETECTS CANCER WITH 25% GREATER ACCURACY THAN DOCTORS IN UCLA STUDYCancer has historically been associated with aging, yet doctors have seen an “alarming trend” of surging cases among those under 50 years of age, according to Edward S. Kim, M.D., the physician-in-chief of City of Hope Orange County and vice physician-in-chief of City of Hope National Medical Center in California. “This latest trend indicating increases in early onset cancer is a paradigm shift,” Kim, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital via email.”It is vital that we identify the reasons behind this trend, educate the public, advance prevention and early diagnosis, and develop more effective treatments.”There is “considerable evidence” pointing to environmental causes of early-onset cancers, according to Kim. “We cannot deny that an extensive range of environmental factors have rapidly transformed in developed countries since the mid-20th century,” he said. FDA APPROVES NEW BLOOD TEST FOR COLON CANCER SCREENING: ‘EARLY DETECTION IS CRITICAL’While controlling these factors can be difficult, Kim said, modifications to diet and lifestyle could make a substantial impact — particularly when implemented in youth and early adulthood.”Caring for our gut’s microbiome — the internal mechanism responsible for absorption of vitamins, regulation of the immune system, and assistance with food digestion – is essential,” he said.To ensure a healthy microbiome, the doctor recommends avoiding ultra-processed foods, exercising to prevent obesity, and avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption.It is also important for health care providers to make cancer screening options more accessible for younger people, Kim said.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER”All too often, primary care physicians may not recommend early screenings, because cancer has traditionally been associated with older ages and the screening guidelines have focused on age-based strategies,” he said. “Expanding cancer research efforts focused on younger individuals is another critical area for improvement,” Kim added. The ACS also calls for access to “affordable, comprehensive health insurance” for younger generations to increase screening rates.The incidence of cancer among people under age 50 around the world is projected to increase by 31% by 2030, studies have shown.For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health”There is an epidemic of young people being diagnosed with cancer occurring right in front of us, and unless we implement some urgent interventions, I fear we will continue to observe more young people with cancer over the next decade,” Kim said.”We cannot wait that long.”Fox News Digital reached out to the ACS researchers for additional comment.

[docganeshnagaranjan]

Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Mumbai with Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan

Pancreatic cancer is a challenging and complex disease that requires a multidisciplinary approach for effective treatment. In Mumbai, one of the leading experts in this field is Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan, a renowned surgical oncologist with extensive experience in treating pancreatic cancer. This article explores the advanced options for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Mumbai under the care of Dr. Nagarajan, who is dedicated to providing the best possible outcomes for his patients.

Understanding Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer originates in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located behind the lower part of the stomach. The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion and blood sugar regulation, making its health vital for overall well-being. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, as its symptoms are subtle and easily overlooked. Common symptoms may include jaundice, weight loss, abdominal pain, and digestive issues.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis is critical for the successful treatment of pancreatic cancer. Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms early and undergoing appropriate diagnostic tests. Advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scans, MRI, and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), are utilized to detect the cancer's presence and determine its stage. Once diagnosed, Dr. Nagarajan and his team formulate a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs.

Treatment Options Available in Mumbai

When it comes to Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Mumbai, several options are available, depending on the cancer's stage and location. Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan specializes in a range of treatments, including:

1. Surgical Intervention

Surgery is often the cornerstone of pancreatic cancer treatment. Dr. Nagarajan performs complex surgical procedures such as the Whipple procedure, distal pancreatectomy, and total pancreatectomy, depending on the tumor's location and size. These surgeries aim to remove the tumor entirely and are often followed by other treatments to ensure the cancer does not return.

2. Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy

For patients with advanced pancreatic cancer or those who are not surgical candidates, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are commonly used. These treatments help to shrink the tumor, control symptoms, and may also be used in conjunction with surgery. Dr. Nagarajan collaborates with a team of oncologists to offer these therapies as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

3. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

In recent years, advancements in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have opened new avenues for treating pancreatic cancer. These therapies work by targeting specific cancer cells or enhancing the body’s immune response to fight the cancer more effectively. Dr. Nagarajan stays at the forefront of these emerging treatments, offering his patients access to the latest and most innovative options available in Mumbai.

Why Choose Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan?

Choosing the right doctor is crucial when facing a diagnosis as serious as pancreatic cancer. Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan is a highly respected name in Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Mumbai. His vast experience, combined with his compassionate approach, ensures that patients receive not only the best medical care but also the emotional support they need during this challenging time. Dr. Nagarajan is committed to using the latest technology and treatment protocols, ensuring that his patients have the best possible outcomes.

Conclusion

If you or a loved one is facing pancreatic cancer, seeking expert care is paramount. Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Mumbai with Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan offers hope through advanced surgical techniques, state-of-the-art therapies, and a patient-centered approach. With a focus on personalized care, Dr. Nagarajan is dedicated to improving survival rates and quality of life for his patients. Trust your health to one of Mumbai’s leading surgical oncologists, and take the first step towards recovery today.

Take the First Step Towards Recovery Today

If you or a loved one is seeking Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Mumbai, trust the expertise of Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan. With personalized care and cutting-edge treatments, you can find hope and healing.

Tap here to book an appointment and start your journey to better health. For more information or to reach us directly, Click here or call us at +91 77000 58024. Our clinic is conveniently located at Sanskruti by Sugee, 202, 2nd Floor, Lady Jamshedji Rd, opp. Kohinoor Tower, Dadar West, Shivaji Park, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400028

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Don't wait—take control of your health with expert Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Mumbai today.

[arvachin]

Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment & More

Pancreatic cancer cases, although not very common, still persist in India. According to recent surveys, there are approximately 0.5–2.4 cases per 100,000 men and around 0.2–1.8 cases of pancreatic cancer for every 100,000 women. To effectively combat this issue, early detection is crucial. We’re here to guide you through understanding, recognizing, and managing this serious health concern. Read on to stay informed about its types, stages, symptoms, and prevention.

What is Pancreatic Cancer?

Types of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer can be classified into several types:

Adenocarcinoma: The most common type, developing in the cells that line the pancreatic duct. Early detection is difficult, and it tends to grow rapidly, making timely intervention crucial.

Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): Less common, these tumors can either produce hormones (functional) or not (non-functional). They typically grow slower than adenocarcinomas.

Cystic Lesions: Fluid-filled sacs in the pancreas, which are mostly harmless but some can turn cancerous. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor their development.

Acinar Cell Carcinoma: A rare type, starting in the cells responsible for producing digestive enzymes. Its behavior differs from the more common adenocarcinoma.

Stages of Pancreatic Cancer

Stage I: Cancer is confined to the pancreas. Surgery is often an option for effective removal.

Stage II: Cancer may reach nearby tissues but not major blood vessels. Treatment options like surgery are considered effective.

Stage III: Cancer has progressed to major blood vessels. A comprehensive approach with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation may be recommended.

Stage IV: In this advanced stage, cancer has spread to distant organs. The focus shifts to improving the patient’s quality of life and managing symptoms.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

Digestive Issues: Changes in bowel habits, such as light-colored stools or dark urine.

Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bile duct blockage.

Unintended Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.

Abdominal Pain: Persistent pain in the abdomen or back.

Loss of Appetite: A decrease in the desire to eat.

New-Onset Diabetes: Development of diabetes without a clear explanation.

Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.

These symptoms, especially when persistent, should prompt consultation with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection is crucial for effective management.

Causes of Pancreatic Cancer

Smoking

Family History of pancreatic cancer

Chronic Pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation of the pancreas

Age: More common in older adults

Overweight or Obesity

Uncontrolled Diabetes

Dietary Factors: High in red and processed meats

Occupational Exposure: Chemicals and petroleum industries

Complications Associated with Pancreatic Cancer

As pancreatic cancer grows, it can cause complications such as:

Spread to Nearby Organs: Complicating treatment.

Blockage of the Digestive System: Affecting nutrient absorption.

Jaundice: Yellowing of skin due to bile duct blockage.

Blood Vessel Involvement: Posing additional challenges for treatment.

Diabetes Development: Leading to new-onset diabetes.

Pain and Discomfort: Persistent abdominal pain impacting quality of life.

Diagnostic Tests for Pancreatic Cancer

Imaging Tests: CT Scan, MRI, Ultrasound

Blood Tests: CA 19–9, Liver Function

Biopsy: Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)

Endoscopic Tests: EUS, ERCP

Laparoscopy: Direct Visualization

These tests aid in diagnosing pancreatic cancer and guiding appropriate treatment approaches. If symptoms arise, prompt medical attention ensures timely intervention.

Prevention of Pancreatic Cancer

Prevention is better than cure. Follow these tips:

Quit Smoking

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Eat a Balanced Diet

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Stay Active

Manage Diabetes

Know Your Family History

Protect Against Occupational Risks

Consider Genetic Counseling in cases of a family history of pancreatic cancer

Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer

Diagnosis: Initial tests like CT scans and biopsies confirm the presence of pancreatic cancer.

Surgery: Depending on the stage, surgical procedures may remove the pancreatic cancer tumor, partially or entirely.

Chemotherapy: Powerful drugs eliminate cancer cells, administered before or after surgery.

Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays target and destroy cancer cells.

Targeted Therapy: Medications specifically target molecules involved in cancer growth.

Immunotherapy: Enhances the body’s immune system to combat cancer cells.

Palliative Care: Focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving the overall quality of life.

Clinical Trials: Participation in research studies exploring new treatments.

Conclusion

Recognizing symptoms, staying healthy, and seeking early treatment are key steps in effectively fighting pancreatic cancer. Personalized approaches like surgery and innovative treatments aim for better outcomes. Palliative care and keeping patients motivated are effective ways to enhance the quality of life. Making informed choices and staying proactive are vital in the fight against pancreatic cancer. For expert care and comprehensive treatment options, consider Arvachin Hospital, known for its dedication to patient well-being.

[vividhighlight]

cat problems

so. kanako's been sick since the beginning of june. started with her throwing up one day, then we found out she hadn't been pooping. they ended up running $1300+ worth of tests including xrays to check for a blockage, blood tests, urinalysis, and she got an enema. came back that she had a horrible uti and vaguely wrong kidney values, they thought maybe she could be diabetic so we tested for that. everything came back that she was probably fine and we treated the uti. she got very picky about eating, she went on an appetite stimulant. it came to the point where the vet said she's probably just old and picky and the uti was messing her up so just feed her whatever she'll eat, it'll sort itself out.

pretty much the same cycle happens at the beginning of july with the pooping and throwing up and she had a fever so we took her to the emergency vet. we're there all night, it was like $2000 idek, we're in crippling credit card debt. the vet there ran all the same tests again and got a thorough history, did an ultrasound that she didn't even charge us for because she just wanted to know. we find out she has a uti, one of her kidneys is smaller than the other, she might have pancreatitis, she gets another enema, and they throw around irritable bowel disease or gastrointestinal lymphoma. they recommend us a new vet for further tests.

two days later the new vet takes her for the day, she does a full abdominal ultrasound and some blood test called a "texas gi panel." she says her lymph nodes are swollen, her gi tract looks a little thick in some spots but not a worrying amount, confirms that one of her kidneys is shriveled but she could've been born like that, and she doesn't think she has pancreatitis. we have to wait a week for results, this all was another $700. (lauren got bit by a dog we were watching this same day but that's a whole other story) she's been eating and pooping normally since this.

yesterday we got the results. her liver is swollen, she has sediment in her gallbladder, her kidneys look more worrying than they thought originally, but the blood was normal, we basically got no answers at all. conservative treatment is a lymph node aspiration to test them and special diet, possibly steroids for her organs. extreme treatment is a full abdominal exploratory surgery to biopsy everything with the end goal being knowing if she has cancer or not. that would be $2500. i haven't talked to my mom about any of this yet. i don't know if i can put kanako through all of that, is it selfish? is it better to know for sure because the vet said that if we do give her steroids at any point and it does turn out to be cancer that it'll be harder to treat because of the steroids. i honestly have no idea what to do and my mom's out of town and she never gets to relax so i don't want to tell her all this and the vet is going on a six day break anyway so... (also lauren just called and said her mom got attacked by a dog at work, what the fuck is going on)