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What Causes Lower Back Pain Despite Having Stage 4 Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer?

Posted on Wed, 17 Sep 2014

Question: I'm diagnosed with stage iv metastatic pancreatic cancer that shows now in both lungs and pelvic area. I really have no symptoms to speak of but constant left lower back ache. One oncologist says chemo and one says radiation. They cannot see hot spot in the pancreas but tests indicate pancreas as primary. Which treatment do you advise since it is systemic. I am confused now because they both have changed their minds on which treatment? Thank you. XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Deepika Patil (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Asymptomatic metastasis may be present

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mam,

Welcome to HealthcareMagic .

Its sad to hear about your condition. It is not necessary all metastasis produce symptoms. Asymptomatic lung metastases may be there. Low back ache you have already indicating pelvic metastasis.

For stage 4 disease chemotherapy has got better results compared to radiotherapy.

If primary is from pancreas there is no need for it to always produce hot spots. Without hot spots primary may exist.

Hope I have answered your query . If any further queries are there I would love to help.

Regards
Dr.Deepika Patil

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju

Follow up: Dr. Deepika Patil (24 hours later)

Do u suggest chemo over radiation? Thank u

Answered by Dr. Deepika Patil (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
yes

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mam,

According to literature and my experience and opinion I prefer chemotherapy over radiotherapy.

If such a patient comes to me I suggest them to go for chemotherapy.

Hope I have answered your query . If no further queries are there you may close the discussion and rate the response .

Regards
Dr.Deepika Patil

Note: For further queries related to kidney problems Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju