Pancreatic Tumor
Pancreatic Cancer
The pancreas is one of the most important organs in our body. It is approximately 15 cm in size and is part of the digestive system. It helps digest the food we eat and keeps the glucose in our body at the right level. Pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult diseases to diagnose and treat. When a pancreatic tumor begins to form, it usually develops in the head of the organ, which is shaped like a gland. If diagnosed early, the chance of treatment increases. However, despite all advancements, surgery remains the most effective method for pancreatic cancer. You can review the page for detailed information. In surgical methods, the pancreatic tumor is removed from the affected area. If the tumor is in the head region and diagnosed early, very successful results can be achieved with the Whipple surgical technique.
Pancreatic Cancer Symptoms
Pancreatic cancer is a stealthy disease that does not show any symptoms in its early stages. It is also classified as the fourth deadliest cancer in the world. When the cancer begins to show symptoms, changes occur in the pancreas and the body. It is useful to note that the changes initially manifest in two ways. In the first, the pancreatic tumor blocks the bile duct, causing bile fluid to accumulate up to the liver. Bile cannot be excreted. Due to the stored bile, dark urine and light-colored stools are observed. Jaundice is also seen. Moreover, widespread and intense itching of the skin is observed. The second way is when the pancreatic tumor forms in the head of the pancreas and blocks the duct, preventing the digestive enzymes secreted by the pancreas from reaching the intestines. Weakness, diarrhea, and weight loss are observed. These changes and symptoms will disappear when pancreatic enzymes are supplemented with pills and capsules or when the blockage in the pancreatic duct is removed. Surgery is the only option for treating pancreatic cancer. While the survival rate in the first 5 years after pancreatic surgery was below 50% after tumor removal, this probability has increased. However, in many patients after pancreatic surgery, tumor recurrence has been observed, and the disease has returned. In such patients and in those who cannot undergo primary surgery, the life expectancy is very limited.
