Pancreatic cancer is challenging because early symptoms are vague. Painless jaundice in an older patient is the classic presentation of head-of-pancreas tumour. New-onset diabetes after age 50 without family history or weight gain, especially with weight loss, is a recognised early sign. Whipple's procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) for head tumours and distal pancreatectomy for body/tail tumours offer the best chance of long-term survival when complete (R0) resection is achievable.
Condition
Pancreatic Cancer
Also known as: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma · Carcinoma of the pancreas
Cancer of the pancreas, most commonly ductal adenocarcinoma. Aggressive and often diagnosed late. Curative-intent surgery (Whipple procedure for head tumours, distal pancreatectomy for body/tail) is possible in around 20 percent of cases.
Signs and symptoms
When to suspect pancreatic cancer
- Painless jaundice (yellow eyes/skin)
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Itching
- Persistent abdominal pain radiating to the back
- Unintentional weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- New-onset diabetes (especially in older adults)
- Fatigue
- Migrating thrombophlebitis (Trousseau's sign)
Risk factors
Who is at higher risk
- Smoking
- Family history of pancreatic cancer
- Chronic pancreatitis
- Type 2 diabetes (long-standing)
- Obesity
- Heavy alcohol use
- Hereditary syndromes (BRCA, Peutz-Jeghers, Lynch, FAMMM)
Surgical treatment options
Procedures Dr. Reddy performs for pancreatic cancer
Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple) and Distal Pancreatectomy
Pancreatic Surgery (Whipple Procedure and More)
Specialised pancreatic surgery by Dr. Dwarakanath Reddy at Apollo Nellore. Whipple procedure for pancreatic head tumors, distal pancreatectomy, and neuroendocrine tumors.
Related conditions
Others in the same area of practice.
ICD-10 · C23
Gallbladder Cancer
Aggressive cancer arising from the gallbladder lining, often associated with long-standing gallstone disease. Frequently found incidentally during routine cholecystectomy. Curative-intent surgery includes radical cholecystectomy with regional lymphadenectomy and partial liver resection.
About this condition →
ICD-10 · C22
Liver Cancer (Hepatocellular Carcinoma)
Primary cancer of the liver, most commonly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arising on a background of chronic liver disease. Curative options include resection (hepatectomy), ablation, or liver transplantation depending on stage and liver function.
About this condition →
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