A Refresher on Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreas is one of the most vital internal organs of the human body. It is found within the abdominal cavity that is there behind the stomach. Pancreas is also considered to be a vital endocrine gland and is responsible for producing several key hormones like polypeptide, somatostatin, glucagon, and insulin.  By releasing strong digestive enzymes into the small intestine, the pancreas helps in digestion process. It also facilitates the infusion of hormones like glucagon and insulin into the bloodstream.

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer usually develops when the cells in the pancreas start to multiply out of control, and ultimately form a mass or lump. These cancerous cells can, at times, even invade other parts of the human body. Pancreatic cancer can be of several types, pancreatic adenocarcinoma being one of its most common variants. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is, in fact, known to account for 85% of the cases of this medical condition. At even the slightest indication of this medical condition, people should try to consult any well-known and experienced pancreas specialist in Delhi or some other urban center of the country, as this condition can worsen very quickly if not treated right at the onset. Here are few of the symptoms of pancreatic adenocarcinoma:

· Pain in upper abdomen

· Jaundice

· Loss of appetite

· Weight loss

Adenocarcinomas usually develop within the distinct part of the pancreas that makes a host of digestive enzymes. Doctors usually recommend the following tests for the patients suspected with adenocarcinoma:

• Ultrasonography of the abdomen
• CT scan

Its diagnosis is usually confirmed by endoscopic ultrasound and fine needle aspiration. Surgical resection is regarded to be one of the most prominent treatment options for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. However, it is seen that 20% of tumors are usually resectable. Therefore, for other cases, treatment options like palliation with stent placement in common bile duct and duodenum for relief of jaundice and chemotherapy is used.

While underlining any certain factor as the cause of pancreatic cancer can be quite difficult, as per renowned pancreas specialist in Delhi and other urban hubs, the habit of smoking usually increases the risks of developing this medical condition to a great extent. Here are few of the other factors that can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer:

· Chronic inflammation of the pancreas

· Diabetes

· Obesity

· Tobacco chewing

· Family history of genetic conditions, such as :

a) Familial atypical mole-malignant melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome

b) Lynch syndrome

c) a BRCA2 gene mutation

People can check out the websites of renowned medical centers of this country to get a better idea of this ailment.