The pancreas is a unique and multifunctional part of the human body. It simultaneously acts as the only gland in the human body in which exocrine and endocrine functions are performed. The pancreas consists of a wide variety of cells; therefore, there are many risks of cancer lesions. The most common malignant tumor is adenocarcinoma, which is the most dangerous for patients and difficult to treat (Tempero et al., 2017). Treatment is complicated by the fact that pancreatic cancer often does not cause any symptoms until it reaches a large size or does not spread to other tissues.
In some cases, the initial signs of pancreatic cancer are general symptoms; they include fatigue, the feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, and indigestion. Sometimes, the first symptoms among people of old age can be sudden attacks of acute pancreatitis. In this instance, one needs to call a doctor and undergo an examination urgently. Early detection of pancreatic cancer can save a person’s life. At the last stages of this disease, a patient can experience constant aching in the abdomen, severe back pain, duodenal obstruction, and signs of diabetes.
In order to detect pancreatic cancer, a blood test should be performed. During this procedure, the level of leukocytes, erythrocytes, globulins, and other elements is checked. After that, a doctor should study the state of the stomach and do an upper endoscopy. One of the methods that significantly increases the chances of survival is the surgical treatment of a tumor. A surgeon must execute a resection of the pancreas with the tumor. After this operation, a patient should also go through chemotherapy to restrain the number of dangerous cells in the body.
Reference
Tempero, M. A., Malafa, M. P., Al-Hawary, M., Asbun, H., Bain, A., Behrman, S. W. & Chiorean, E. G. (2017). Pancreatic adenocarcinoma, version 2.2017, NCCN clinical practice guidelines in oncology. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, 15(8), 1028-1061. Web.