Pancreatic cancer and CA 19-9

Hi,
  My 70 yr old mom was diagnosed with pancan in jan2010. Since then she has undergone a round of chemo, and has started 2nd one now. However, her CA19-9 has gone from less than 150 in early feb to 490 in mid june. Does this mean that the cancer is growing very rapidly, or what? How to interpret this?

[Londres70]

In your mother's case, this CA19-9 marker is used to track progression of the Pancreatic CA.  The CA 19-9 elevating is not a good thing; sounds like it is not responding well to the chemo regimen.  

I assumed pancan was Pancreatic CA.

[babakripa]

Thanks for a prompt reply. I wish you had better info to report, but then facts are facts I guess. Thanks again.

[Londres70]

All the best.  I wish I had better to report too.

[Londres70]

Keep in mind, the physician can try another chemo with her and see if she responds to that.  So, there is some hope.  I should have stated she in not responding to the current chemo regimen.  

[babakripa]

Indeed you are right.....the dr has started another regime with her now....lets see.
thanks for comforting words.

[Londres70]

All the best to you and your mom.  

Keep us posted.