Panic as a harbinger of pancreatic cancer.

BACKGROUND

Previous literature has discussed the diagnosis of cancer with psychiatric symptoms. There are noted associations made between pancreatic cancer and depression and anxiety symptoms both in literature and textbooks.

METHOD: The authors discuss the case of a patient who presented with anxiety and panic attacks before his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

CONCLUSION

There has been a previous association noted between depression and anxiety and pancreatic cancer; however, this work and another report have noted panic episodes preceding diagnosis, as well. These symptoms could prove to be an important marker for early detection.