Cancer of the Pancreas

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Pancreatic cancer occurs when cells within the pancreas undergo changes that make the cells grow and divide uncontrollably.

What is going on in the body?

The pancreas is a gland located in the middle part of the upper abdomen. Insulin is produced by the pancreas to help the body regulate blood glucose. The pancreas also produces substances to help the body digest food. When a cell in the pancreas becomes cancerous, it grows into a tumor that destroys the tissue around it.
A tumor in the pancreas tends to quickly invade the nearby liver. Eventually, the liver will be affected, and part of it will be destroyed. The cancer can also metastasize, or spread, through the bloodstream to other parts of the body. Pancreatic cancer is usually found late in the disease when it is most likely to be fatal.

What are the causes and risks of the disease?

Cigarette smoking significantly increases a person's risk for pancreatic cancer. It is not clear if other factors also increase the risk. The influence of alcohol and caffeine on the development of this cancer is uncertain and controversial

 

Symptoms & Signs

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

Most people do not realize they have pancreatic cancer until it has advanced into the liver. At that time, the person will have symptoms related to the destruction of the liver. Unexplained weight loss is the most common symptom. Other symptoms may include:

jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes

nausea and vomiting

 pain in the middle to upper part of the abdomen that may spread to the back              

Diagnosis & Tests

How is the disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis of pancreatic cancer begins with a medical history and physical exam. The healthcare provider may order tests, including:

an abdominal CT scan

a biopsy to remove a small piece of tissue for examination

CT scans and specialized X-rays to determine if the cancer has spread

Prevention & Expectations 

What can be done to prevent the disease?

Individuals who smoke can lower their risk for pancreatic cancer if they quit smoking. Some studies suggest that people who have had a tonsillectomy or various allergies may be at less risk for pancreatic cancer, but more research is needed.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

If found early, the cancer can sometimes be controlled for a period of time. However, pancreatic cancer usually causes death. The average survival is 4.1 months.

What are the risks to others?

Pancreatic cancer is not contagious and poses no risk to others.



Reference 
 Brower, S.T;Jones, D.V.;Cunningham, J.D.; & Myerson, R.J.(1996). Pancreatic cancer, hepatobiliary cancer, and neuroendocrine cancers of the GI tract in Cancer Management: A Multidisciplinary Approach. PRR: Huntington, NY. pp.107-141