About Department

Pancreatic cancer is a malignant tumor that arises in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that plays a crucial role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. It is one of the most aggressive and deadly forms of cancer, often diagnosed at a late stage due to its subtle and nonspecific symptoms.

Types of Pancreatic Cancer

Exocrine Pancreatic Cancer

• Adenocarcinoma: The most common type, originating in the ducts of the pancreas.
• Acinar cell carcinoma: Originates in the enzyme-producing cells.
• Cystadenocarcinoma: A rare type that arises from cystic tumors.
• Undifferentiated carcinoma: An aggressive type with poor prognosis.

Endocrine Pancreatic Cancer (Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors or NETs)

• Insulinomas: Tumors that produce insulin.
• Gastrinomas: Tumors that produce gastrin.
• Glucagonomas: Tumors that produce glucagon.
• Somatostatinomas: Tumors that produce somatostatin.
• VIPomas: Tumors that produce vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP).

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing pancreatic cancer:

• Age: Most patients are older than 45.
• Gender: Men are slightly more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than women.
• Race: African Americans have a higher incidence of pancreatic cancer.
• Smoking: Cigarette smoking is a significant risk factor.
• Obesity and physical inactivity
• Diabetes: Long-standing diabetes increases risk.
• Chronic pancreatitis: Often linked to heavy alcohol use and smoking.
• Family history and genetic syndromes: Mutations in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and others.
• Diet: High intake of red and processed meats may be linked to an increased risk.

Symptoms

Pancreatic cancer symptoms often do not appear until the disease is advanced, and they can include:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain that radiates to the back
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• New-onset diabetes or worsening of existing diabetes
• Blood clots
• Fatigue
• Dark urine and light-colored stools

Diagnosis

Diagnosing pancreatic cancer involves several steps:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, and PET scan to visualize the pancreas.
• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): Uses an endoscope to get detailed images and possibly take a biopsy.
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): Combines endoscopy and X-rays to diagnose and treat certain conditions of the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts.
• Biopsy: Obtaining a tissue sample for pathological examination.
• Blood tests: Checking for specific tumor markers such as CA 19-9.