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Cancer/ Pancreatic Cancer

There are several disorders that affect the pancreas including pancreatitis, precancerous conditions like PanIN and IPMN, and pancreatic cancer. Each disorder can exhibit different symptoms and require different treatments. To learn more about each condition, click on the links to the left.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis refers to inflammation of the pancreas that occurs when pancreatic enzyme secretions build up and begin to digest the organ itself. It can occur as acute, painful attacks that are temporary, or may be a chronic condition developing over a period of years. Chronic pancreatitis occurs most often in individuals who have experienced pancreatic damage from earlier episodes of acute pancreatitis and is frequently caused by long-term alcohol use.

If you are experiencing symptoms and would like to consult one of our physicians, please contact Beth Schrope, MD, PhD who specializes in treating pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis has a range of possible causes, including:

• Gallstones
• Alcohol use
• Structural problems of the pancreatic and bile ducts
• Some medications like estrogen supplements and some diuretics
• Severe viral or bacterial infection
• Injury to the abdomen
• Elevated triglyceride levels, called hyperlipidemia
• Elevated calcium blood levels, called hypercalcemia
• Genetic causes such as gastric fibrosis

Symptoms of Acute Pancreatitis

• Severe, steady pain in the upper-middle part of the abdomen, often radiating into the back
• Jaundice
• Low-grade fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lowered blood pressure
• Clammy skin
• Unusual abdominal hardness or mass that can be felt
• Abdominal bloating and tenderness
• Bruising (ecchymosis) in the flanks and midsection
• The tissue of the pancreas may become necrotic (tissue death)
• Pancreatic abscess
• Pancreatic pseudocyst, which is a abnormal deposits of tissue, fluid and debris can result after episodes of acute pancreatitis, typically 1 to 4 weeks after onset

Symptoms of Chronic Pancreatitis

Symptoms may develop over a period of time without the sudden dramatic occurrence of an acute attack. However, those with undiagnosed chronic pancreatitis may develop acute episodes. In chronic pancreatitis, there is a decrease in the secretion of enzymes needed for digestion and absorption of dietary fats. Fat digestion is impaired, resulting in fatty stools. This is called exocrine insufficiency. Recurrent abdominal pain may be accompanied by nausea and weight loss. Diagnostic scans may find stones or areas of calcified tissue within the pancreas.

• Abdominal and/or back pain
• Weight loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Onset of diabetes mellitus
• Pale colored, oily stools