A pancreatic tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the pancreas, which is a gland located behind the stomach that plays a key role in digestion and regulating blood sugar levels.
There are several types of pancreatic tumors, including benign (non-cancerous) tumors, precancerous tumors, and malignant (cancerous) tumors. The most common type of pancreatic tumor is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, which accounts for about 95% of all pancreatic cancers.
Pancreatic tumors can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel movements. However, in some cases, pancreatic tumors may not cause any symptoms until they are quite advanced. Diagnosis of pancreatic tumors usually involves a combination of imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans, as well as a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of tumor.
Treatment for pancreatic tumors depends on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. In general, treatment options may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. Pancreatic tumors can be challenging to treat because they often grow and spread quickly, and they may not respond well to traditional cancer treatments. As a result, the prognosis for pancreatic tumors can be poor, particularly if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. However, advances in treatment options and early detection may improve outcomes for some patients.