Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells form in the tissues of the pancreas, the organ behind your stomach that helps with digestion and blood sugar regulation. If not detected early, these cells can invade nearby structures or spread (metastasize) to other organs. Early diagnosis offers the best chance for effective treatment.
He reviews your pattern of epigastric pain, changes in appetite or weight, personal and family history of GI cancers, alcohol and tobacco use, and performs a focused abdominal exam.
We measure CA 19-9 (a pancreatic tumor marker), liver function tests, bilirubin levels, and pancreatic enzymes (amylase and lipase) to assess for inflammation or obstruction.
If imaging raises suspicion, EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration is performed to obtain tissue and confirm the diagnosis, tumor type, and stage.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Early signs may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), unexplained weight loss, upper abdominal or back pain, loss of appetite, and new-onset diabetes. Always check with your doctor if you notice these changes.
The exact cause is unknown, but risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol use, chronic pancreatitis, a family history of pancreatic or other cancers, obesity, and age over 60.
If caught in an early stage, surgery to remove the tumor may be curative. In later stages, treatments aim to control the disease, relieve symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Treatment usually includes chemotherapy, targeted therapies when specific tumor markers are present, pain management, and supportive care to slow progression and manage symptoms.
Schedule an appointment as soon as you experience any warning signs. Early evaluation by a specialist like Dr. Pothuri offers the best range of treatment options.
Yes. Dr. Pothuri welcomes second-opinion requests and can review your scans, pathology, and treatment history to help you make informed decisions.
Our team provides nutrition counseling, pain and symptom management, emotional support, and access to clinical trials-all coordinated here in Houston to support you every step of the way.
