Pancare

Pancare is a term used to describe medical and supportive care related to the pancreas. It covers the diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of pancreatic diseases, including inflammatory conditions such as pancreatitis, malignant diseases such as pancreatic cancer, and disorders of pancreatic exocrine or endocrine function. The goal of pancare is to relieve symptoms, maintain nutrition and quality of life, and manage complications through a coordinated, patient-centered approach.

The pancreas performs digestive and hormonal roles, producing enzymes that aid digestion and hormones such as insulin. Pancreatic diseases can present with abdominal pain, weight loss, jaundice, digestive changes, or new-onset diabetes. Diagnosis relies on imaging (CT, MRI, endoscopic ultrasound), blood tests (lipase, amylase, tumor markers), and sometimes tissue biopsy. Treatments vary by condition and include medical management for pancreatitis, surgical or endoscopic interventions, chemotherapy and targeted therapies for cancer, and pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy to aid digestion. Endocrine disorders may require insulin or other antidiabetic medications, and nutritional support is common throughout pancare.

Care is typically provided by a multidisciplinary team that may include gastroenterologists, surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, dietitians, pain specialists, and palliative care professionals. Advance care planning, psychosocial support, and patient education are integral to pancare. Patient advocacy groups and research foundations under the pancare umbrella work to raise awareness, fund research, provide information, and connect patients with resources and clinical trials.