Pankreaskarcier

Pankreaskarcier, also known as pancreatic cancer, is a disease in which malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the pancreas. The pancreas is a gland located behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and hormones like insulin. There are several types of pancreatic cancer, with the most common being adenocarcinoma, which arises in the ducts that carry digestive enzymes. Other less common types include neuroendocrine tumors.

The exact causes of pancreatic cancer are not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. These include smoking, diabetes, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, and a family history of the disease. Age is also a factor, with the risk increasing significantly after age 65. Certain inherited genetic syndromes can also increase the risk.

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can be vague and may not appear until the disease is advanced. Common symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, and changes in stool. Nausea and vomiting can also occur.

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests (including tumor markers), imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound, and sometimes a biopsy. Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health. They can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage, making treatment challenging and prognoses generally poor. Research continues to focus on early detection and more effective therapies.