Exocrine pancreatic cancer

Exocrine pancreatic cancer, also known as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, is a type of cancer that originates in the exocrine cells of the pancreas. The pancreas is a vital organ located behind the stomach that plays a key role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. Exocrine pancreatic cancer is the most common type of pancreatic cancer, accounting for approximately 95% of all cases.

Symptoms

Symptoms of exocrine pancreatic cancer may include jaundice, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, and changes in stool color. However, these symptoms are non-specific and can be attributed to various other conditions, making early detection challenging.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of exocrine pancreatic cancer typically involves a combination of imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, and endoscopic ultrasound, as well as biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. Blood tests may also be conducted to assess levels of certain biomarkers associated with pancreatic cancer.

Treatment

Treatment options for exocrine pancreatic cancer depend on the stage of the cancer and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Surgical resection of the tumor offers the best chance of long-term survival, but many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage when surgery is not feasible.

Prognosis

The prognosis for exocrine pancreatic cancer is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate of around 10%. This is largely due to the aggressive nature of the disease and the lack of effective screening methods for early detection. However, ongoing research into new treatment approaches and early detection strategies offers hope for improved outcomes in the future.

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