Histologically confirmed adenocarcinoma of the pancreas (When possible the tissue should be evaluated for K-ras mutation and the patient evaluated for BRCA and p16 mutations.)
Locally advanced disease determined by Endoscopic ultrasound, CT scan (chest/abdomen/pelvis with contrast), MRI scan (of abdomen with gadolinium) or PET scan.
No evidence of metastatic disease by CT scan (chest/abdomen/pelvis with contrast), MRI scan (of abdomen with gadolinium) or PET scan.
Unresectable tumor. (this reflects those patients whose tumors abut, invade or surround a major vessel, either venous or arterial or both)
No prior chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Ineligible for other high priority national or institutional studies.
Negative serum or urine β-HCG within 1 week of starting treatment for non-pregnant, non-menopausal females.
Must not have other underlying medical conditions that would make them ineligible for surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
Complete Blood Count and Complete Metabolic Profile:
Absolute Neutrophil Count \> 1,500 μl White Blood Count \> 3,000/μl Platelet count \> 100,000/μl BUN \< 1.5 x normal Creatinine \< 1.5 normal Hemoglobin \> 8.0 g/dl Serum Albumin \> 3 mg/dl Total Bilirubin \< 3.0 mg/dl SGOT, SGPT, Alkaline Phosphatase \< 2.5 x ULN
Informed consent: Each patient must be completely aware of the nature of his/her disease process and must willingly give consent after being informed of the nature of this therapy, alternatives, potential benefits, side-effects, risks, and discomforts.
