It is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the pancreas and usually spreads quickly. There is uncontrolled growth in the cells of the pancreas, which produce digestive enzymes and hormones. Pancreatic cancer It is diagnosed in advanced stages because it does not show symptoms in the early stages. Symptoms include abdominal and back pain, loss of appetite, weight loss and jaundice. Early diagnosis is difficult and treatment usually includes surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
What are the symptoms of pancreatic cancer?
Pancreatic cancer As it grows, it can put pressure on surrounding organs and nerves, causing pain. These pains usually start in the upper abdomen and spread to the back. The pain is characterized by increasing pain after sitting or eating, and often becomes uncomfortable at night while sleeping. When the digestive system begins to be affected, appetite may decrease. It can also affect metabolism, causing sudden and rapid weight loss. This is due to increased energy consumption due to the rapid proliferation of cancer cells in the body.
Tumors that develop in the head of the pancreas can block the flow of bile by pressing on the bile duct. This causes yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, light-colored stools, and dark urine. Itching may also occur. It can affect the stomach and small intestine, causing nausea. The tumor blocks the stomach outlet, making it difficult for food to move through the digestive system. This can also cause vomiting.
The pancreas produces digestive enzymes, so the production of these enzymes may be reduced in the presence of cancer. This can cause oily, foul-smelling, and light-colored stools. Digestive problems can include difficulty digesting high-fat foods, stomach discomfort, and bloating. The pancreas produces the hormone insulin, which regulates blood sugar. Cancer can affect this process, and some patients may develop symptoms similar to diabetes. Sudden onset or worsening of diabetes may be related to cancer.
Pancreatic cancer, depletes the body's energy reserves. Patients often feel tired, weak and lacking in energy. This symptom is due to the metabolism being strained by the cancer. It is important to consult a doctor if any combination of these symptoms occur. Early diagnosis can significantly affect treatment options and the course of the disease, as it can progress rapidly.
What Causes Pancreatic Cancer?
In the family pancreatic cancer Having a history of diabetes increases the risk due to inherited gene mutations. Smoking is one of the most important risk factors. Chemical substances in cigarette smoke can damage the pancreas and trigger cancer. It is usually seen in people over the age of 45. It also tends to be seen more frequently in men than in women. Eating high-fat, processed and unhealthy foods can increase the risk. Diabetes can increase the risk. Also pancreatic cancer can lead to diabetes or worsen existing diabetes symptoms. These factors are among the factors that increase the risk, but they may not be the same risk for everyone.
How Is Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosed?
It is detected by the increase in the blood levels of proteins such as CA 19-9 and CEA, which are tumor markers. However, blood tests alone pancreatic cancer is not sufficient for diagnosis. Ultrasonography is used to see if there is a suspicious mass in the abdomen. Computed tomography provides detailed images to assess the size of the tumor and whether it has spread to other organs. Magnetic resonance imaging is used to get a clear picture of the pancreatic tissue. Endoscopic ultrasound provides a closer look at the pancreas. EUS can also be used to take samples from organs close to the pancreas.
Biopsy is performed together with imaging methods to make a definitive diagnosis. Samples taken through needle biopsy are examined under a microscope. ERCP is used to see if there is a blockage in the pancreas and bile ducts. During this procedure, imaging is provided with the help of a small camera and a biopsy can be taken. Positron emission tomography is used to understand the spread of cancer in the body. It shows the areas where tumors are actively growing. The combination of these diagnostic methods, pancreatic cancer is important to determine the phase.
How Is Pancreatic Cancer Treated?
Pancreaticoduodenectomy is the preferred treatment for tumors located at the head of the pancreas. This surgery involves removing part of the pancreas, the beginning of the small intestine, and sometimes part of the stomach. It is an effective treatment for early-stage cancer. Distal pancreatectomy is performed for tumors in the tail of the pancreas, and the spleen may also be removed. Total pancreatectomy is a less common type of surgery that removes the entire pancreas. Radiation therapy is used to shrink the tumor and reduce symptoms in patients who cannot undergo surgery.
This treatment, pancreatic cancer It uses high-energy beams to destroy cells. Drug treatment is used to kill tumor cells or prevent them from multiplying. It is usually preferred to prevent recurrence after surgery or to shrink the tumor before surgery. The most commonly used chemotherapy drugs are agents such as gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel. Treatments that target specific genetic mutations can be used. For example, drugs such as erlotinib, which are used in some patients, help control the growth of the cancer.
Immunotherapy strengthens the immune system. It allows it to attack cancer cells. This treatment is mostly used in patients with certain genetic profiles. Palliative care options are applied to relieve symptoms, reduce pain and improve quality of life. The quality of life of patients can be improved with treatments such as nutritional support, pain management and psychological support. Pancreatic cancer Success rates in treatment increase with early diagnosis. Therefore, patients should check their risk factors and not neglect their doctor's check-ups.
