Duct Cell Carcinoma of the Pancreas, also commonly known as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), refers to a malignant tumor that originates in the ductal cells of the pancreas. The tumor arises when there is an abnormal growth and proliferation of the cells lining the pancreatic ducts, which are responsible for the secretion of digestive enzymes and bicarbonate into the small intestine.
PDAC is the most common type of pancreatic cancer, accounting for approximately 95% of all cases. It typically develops asymptomatically in the early stages, making it difficult to detect early on. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include jaundice, abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, and changes in bowel habits.
This type of cancer is known to be highly aggressive and has a tendency to spread rapidly to nearby tissues and organs. It is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, limiting the treatment options available and resulting in poor prognosis. However, if detected early, treatment options such as surgical resection, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies can be considered to improve outcomes.
Various risk factors have been associated with PDAC, including smoking, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus, certain genetic disorders, family history of pancreatic cancer, and advancing age. Research efforts are underway to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and progression of PDAC, as well as to identify effective early detection methods and therapeutic approaches for this challenging disease.
