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Pancreatic Cancer Gastroenterologist - Dr. Scott Liu
GastroDoxs is the best place to be in Houston with excellent pancreatic cancer care offered by Dr. Scott. Get the treatment plans, early intervention strategies, new therapy choices, and the survivorship care based on a top GI specialist. Manage your own health-visit today.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Pancreatic Cancer?
Cancer in the pancreas results when the entire growth of pancreatic abnormal cells turns out of control and it may have started in the ducts wide enough to carry the digestive enzymes. It is one of the most aggressive types of cancer and, possibly, does not result in the symptoms until advanced stages. The usual symptoms are jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), unexplainable loss of weight, abdominal or back pain, lack of appetite, and the onset of diabetes. It is usually diagnosed with the use of imaging (CT, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound), biopsy, and tests of tumor markers. The possible treatments are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies and they are usually presented in a multidisciplinary care environment.
He poses specific questions of the epigastric pain (when it began, if it radiates to the back, whether weight loss began suddenly, whether jaundiced, changed his appetite, and summarizes the risk factors, including smoking, family history, chronic pancreatitis or diabetes. Specific physical examination to examine the presence of abdominal tenderness, palpable masses or biliary obstruction.
Blood Tests
CA 19-9 tumor marker levels are measured and liver tests (AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin) are performed to identify blockage of the biliary and assess liver health in general. Complete blood count and metabolic panel assist in eliminating other causes of your symptoms.
Imaging Studies
Contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis to pinpoint pancreatic masses, assess size, vascular involvement and potential spread.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or MR cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) for high-resolution views of pancreatic ducts and adjacent structures.
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for close-up imaging of small lesions and real-time guidance for tissue sampling.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Should imaging raise the likelihood of malignancy, fine-needle aspiration guided by EUS performed by Dr. Scott, or core biopsy using CT guided needle will be performed in order to get tissue. The type and grade of the cancer is confirmed via pathology, whereas molecular profiling can direct a form of targeted or immunotherapy. Selective staging laparoscopy is applied to confirm microscopic spread one should proceed with surgery beforehand.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for pancreatic cancer.
Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Small and low fat foods separated by intervals throughout the day to aid digestion.
Protein sources Low-energy Foods and fiber good sources High-fiber foods to keep us strong.
Light work-outs in the form of short walks- to reduce fatigue.
Emotional well-being Support groups.
Medications
Soothe with drugs of analgesics of prescription.
Enzyme supplements to enhance digestion and nutrient absorption in the pancreas.
Precisely designed stage- and biology-specific systemic chemotherapy.
Minor or Complex Surgeries
Biliary jaundice stenting to alleviate jaundice and enhance liver work.
Targeted treatment of small tumors with Radiofrequency ablation (RFA).
Genetic profiling-based targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can pancreatic cancer be treated?
There are cases that can be removed surgically. In the case of later stages, treatment is still able to help in bettering and prolonging life.
What is the cause of pancreatic cancer?
The major risk factors include smoking, family history, chronic pancreatitis, obesity and diabetes.
When do symptoms start?
Cancer symptoms can manifest only when the cancer is large. High-risk patients should receive early screening.
Is there a role of diet in the treatment?
Yes. With nutrient-rich diet, which consists of low cholesterol, energy, digestion, and the overall well-being are supported throughout treatment.
What would happen to stage 4 pancreatic cancer?
Dr. Scott also has the most recent therapies such as chemotherapy and targeted therapy to help manage pain and prolong life.
Will you not receive my early symptoms seriously?
Yes. We pay attention to every possible sign such as abdominal pain or loss of appetite and respond fast to diagnose and treat.
What do I need to carry on my first visit?
Please carry a copy of your medical history, a list of medications currently used, and any recent radiographies/laboratory findings.
