Pancreatic Cancer
Introduction
Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the pancreas grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour. The pancreas, located behind the stomach, helps with digestion and blood sugar control. This type of cancer is often difficult to detect early because symptoms—such as jaundice, abdominal pain, weight loss, or fatigue—usually appear in later stages. Risk factors include smoking, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, obesity, and a family history of pancreatic cancer. Diagnosis may involve imaging tests, blood tests, or a biopsy. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. Early detection and supportive care can greatly improve quality of life.
General Symptoms
Pancreatic cancer often causes few symptoms early on, but certain warning signs may prompt doctors to order tests. Common symptoms that lead to further investigation include:
Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, and pale stools caused by bile duct blockage.
Abdominal or back pain: A dull pain in the upper abdomen that may spread to the back.
Unexplained weight loss: Rapid, unintentional weight loss or loss of appetite.
Digestive problems: Nausea, vomiting, bloating, or changes in stool (greasy or floating).
New-onset diabetes: Especially in older adults without typical risk factors.
Fatigue: Persistent tiredness without clear cause.
Diagnosis
When symptoms suggest pancreatic cancer, doctors use several tests to confirm the diagnosis and understand the disease’s extent. Common tests include:
Imaging Tests:
CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the pancreas and nearby organs. It helps detect tumours, determine size, and check for spread.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Offers high-resolution images of soft tissues and bile ducts.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): A thin tube with an ultrasound probe is passed through the mouth into the stomach to obtain detailed images and sometimes take tissue samples.
PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Scan: Detects active cancer cells throughout the body using a small amount of radioactive sugar.
Blood Tests:
Tumour Markers (CA 19-9 and CEA): Elevated levels may suggest pancreatic cancer but aren’t specific enough for screening alone.
Liver Function Tests: Help detect bile duct blockage or liver involvement.
Biopsy:
A small tissue sample is taken from the pancreas using a needle guided by EUS or CT to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography):
Combines endoscopy and X-rays to visualise the bile and pancreatic ducts. The process can also relieve blockages by inserting stents.