Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the tissues of the pancreas, a gland located behind the stomach that plays an essential role in digestion and regulating blood sugar. Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor.
Types of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is classified into different types based on the cells where it begins.
Exocrine Tumors: The most common type, typically originating in the ducts of the pancreas. The most frequent form is pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Endocrine Tumors (Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors): These are less common and arise from hormone-producing cells in the pancreas.
Acinar Cell Carcinoma: A rare type that begins in acinar cells, which produce digestive enzymes in the pancreas.
Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasm (SPN): A very rare, low-grade malignant tumor that typically occurs in young women and grows slowly.
Mixed Tumors: Tumors that show characteristics of both exocrine and endocrine cells, making them uncommon and harder to classify.
Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is often asymptomatic in the early stages, but as it progresses, symptoms may include:
Unexplained weight loss
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Abdominal pain (radiating to the back)
Loss of appetite
Blood clots
Nausea
Diabetes (newly diagnosed)
Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer
Surgery
- Whipple Procedure: Removal of the head of the pancreas, part of the stomach, and other nearby structures.
- Distal Pancreatectomy: Removal of the body and tail of the pancreas.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to destroy cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs like gemcitabine or FOLFIRINOX are used to kill cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific cancer cell mechanisms (e.g., PARP inhibitors).
- Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells.
Conclusion
Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making early detection and treatment critical to improving outcomes.
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