Patrick Swayze in Cancer Battle

Dirty Dancing star Patrick Swayze has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, his agent confirmed today.

The 55-year-old star of Dirty Dancing and Ghost was said to be continuing with his work commitments and responding well to treatment.

The actor's doctor, Dr George Fisher, said: "Patrick has a very limited amount of disease and he appears to be responding well to treatment thus far.

"All of the reports stating the time frame of his prognosis and his physical side-effects are absolutely untrue. "We are considerably more optimistic."

Swayze's agent, Annett Wolf, added: "Patrick is continuing his normal schedule during this time, which includes working on upcoming projects.

"The outpouring of support and concern he has already received from the public is deeply appreciated by Patrick and his family."

Swayze is currently working on two films, according to movie website imdb.com.

Both Powder Blue and a television movie called The Beast are scheduled for release later this year.