Advertisement
Sections
Pancreatic cancer: Is the disease hereditary?
Pancreatic cancer can also run in the family. Pancreatic cancer that are hereditary account for 10% of cases
Pancreatic cancer is development of malignant (cancerous) cells in the tissues of the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ of the digestive system in the abdomen and plays an important role in converting food into fuel for the body’s cells.Pancreatic cancer is the fourth most prevalent disease to cause mortality. It is the tenth most common cancer in men and the eighth most common in women. It is very difficult to detect pancreatic cancer, hence it goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage. Exocrine tumors (includes Ductal adenocarcinoma), neuroendocrine tumors and cystic neoplasm are the three forms of tumors that develop in the pancreas.Pancreatic cancer can also run in the family. Pancreatic cancer that are hereditary account for 10% of cases. This indicates that the patient has an inherited gene mutation. Most pancreatic tumors are caused by acquired mutations as opposed to inherited mutations. Parents cannot convey these mutations to their children. However, occasionally, mutated DNA is passed down from parent to child, and we refer to these as germline mutations. It is possible that these mutations cause hereditary pancreatic cancer. This is the only known technique to pass on pancreatic cancer.Symptoms of hereditary pancreatic cancerThe signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer are commonly ignored. Some of the symptoms include pain in upper abdomen or back often spreading from the stomach to back, loss of appetite or weight loss, jaundice—yellowing of the skin and eyes becoming yellow, skin itching, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and fatigue.What can a person do if they have history of pancreatic cancer in the family?People who have a family history of pancreatic cancer are referred to a geneticist. The doctor performs a genetic test to see if there is a faulty gene that can lead to pancreatic cancer. If a faulty gene is discovered, the person should see a doctor on a regular basis so that any malignant cell growth can be detected early.Diagnosis Pancreatic mass is identified with using abdominal imaging using Ultrasound Abdomen or CTScan abdomen, however pancreatic cancer can only be identified with a biopsy, which involves removing real tissue from the tumor. Several techniques can be used to perform biopsies:
- CTscan guided biopsy of pancreatic mass
- Endoscopic ultrasound -flexible tube with camera and ultrasound probe on it goes from mouth into the small intestine close to the pancreas to collect images and take biopsy
- In certain subset of patients like suspicious pancreatic duct narrowing and inconclusive diagnosis by EUS biopsy can perform Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)brush cytology.
First Published:Dec 01, 2022, 15:36:58 IST
Advertisement
Advertisement
Stroke is rising among young adults. Doctor explains why it's happening and what you must do
Stroke is increasingly affecting adults in their 30s, 40s and 50s. Experts say unhealthy lifestyles, undiagnosed high blood pressure and delayed treatment are driving the rise in younger stroke cases
3 min read
Stroke in young adults, silent symptoms and late diagnosis: India's growing brain health challenge
Neurologists warn that stroke is increasingly affecting people in their 30s and 40s, while many brain disorders progress silently before symptoms appear. They say early diagnosis, timely referrals and healthier lifestyles are key to reducing India's growing neurological disease burden.
5 min read
Brain tumours aren't always fatal, but delayed diagnosis can be: Experts explain the key warning signs
Brain tumours are frequently mistaken for common headaches, stress or age-related cognitive changes. Doctors say recognising warning signs early and adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term neurological complications.
2 min read
Spices, health and the Indian plate: Why chilli can be good for you—but moderation is still key
From boosting metabolism to supporting heart health, chillies offer several surprising health benefits. But experts say the amount you eat matters, and too much spice can do more harm than good.
4 min read
Organ donation: 5 myths you need to stop believing, according to a transplant specialist
Organ donation has the power to transform and save lives, but this can happen only when myths are replaced with facts. Building awareness, having open conversations and understanding the process can help families make informed decisions.
2 min read
Advertisement
Advertisement