Glossary

Our extensive collection of web-based and other resources for patients, families, and caregivers provides easy access to information on a wide variety of subjects related to pancreatic cancer.

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There are currently 11 Terms in this directory beginning with the letter F.
Familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome
Genetic syndrome in which many different-sized, asymmetrical, raised moles are present; may be associated with melanoma or pancreatic cancer.
Familial breast cancer syndrome
Breast cancer that occurs more often in a family than would normally occur by chance. There is often a genetic factor, such as a BRCA mutation, which increases the risk of several cancers, including pancreatic cancer.
Familial pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer that occurs more often in a family than would normally occur by chance. There is often a genetic factor (known or unknown) involved.
Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy
Technique in which a thin needle is inserted into a tumor; cells are removed and examined under a microscope.
First-degree relative
Parents, children, or siblings of an individual.
First-line treatment
The first set of treatments given to treat a disease.
Fluorouracil (also knowns as 5-FU and 5-fluorouracil)
A chemotherapy drug used to treat pancreatic cancer. It is also used as part of the combination of drugs known as FOLFIRINOX.
FOLFIRINOX
One of the standard treatments for advanced pancreatic cancer. It is a four-drug combination: FOL (leucovorin calcium, or folinic acid), F (fluorouracil, or 5-FU), IRIN (irinotecan), OX (oxaliplatin). Each of these drugs enhances the action of the others.
FOLFOX
A combination chemotherapy consisting of leucovorin (folinic acid), fluorouracil, and oxaliplatin.
Follow-up testing
Tests done after treatment to check for signs that the cancer has come back.
Four-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT)
A CT scan that can show the movement of organs.