What are the signs of pancreatic cancer
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Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that signs of pancreatic cancer include jaundice, weight loss, abdominal pain, appetite loss, and pale stools, with early detection being crucial yet challenging.
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Signs of Pancreatic Cancer: A Comprehensive Overview
Common Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer often presents with a range of symptoms that can be easily overlooked due to their non-specific nature. Early symptoms typically include epigastric bloating, flatulence, general malaise, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. As the disease progresses, more definitive signs such as painless jaundice and significant weight loss become apparent .
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Gastrointestinal symptoms are prevalent among pancreatic cancer patients. These include appetite loss, pale stools, abdominal pain, unusual bloating, and unusual belching. These symptoms are often reported within three years before diagnosis and are significantly more common in patients with pancreatic cancer compared to control participants.
Jaundice and Weight Loss
Jaundice is a critical symptom, particularly in older patients, and is associated with a high positive predictive value (PPV) for pancreatic cancer. Weight loss, especially when combined with other symptoms, also has a high PPV and warrants further investigation.
Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances
Fatigue is another common symptom, often accompanied by an altered ability to sleep. These symptoms, while not specific to pancreatic cancer, are frequently reported by patients and can significantly impact their quality of life .
Abdominal Pain and Back Pain
Abdominal pain is a frequent complaint among pancreatic cancer patients, often indicating advanced disease . Back pain is also notable and can predict unresectability and shortened survival after resection.
Changes in Bowel Habits
Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation and diarrhea, are also reported by patients with pancreatic cancer . These symptoms, while common in many gastrointestinal disorders, should raise suspicion when occurring alongside other indicative signs.
Psychological Symptoms
Psychological symptoms, including anxiety and depression, are prevalent but less frequently studied in pancreatic cancer patients. These symptoms can exacerbate the physical burden of the disease and should be addressed in comprehensive patient care.
Cholestatic Symptoms
Cholestatic symptoms, such as choluria (dark urine) and itching, are more common in tumors affecting the pancreatic head and are associated with more localized tumors. These symptoms can help in identifying patients at an earlier stage of the disease.
Conclusion
Pancreatic cancer presents with a variety of symptoms that are often non-specific and easily overlooked. Key signs include gastrointestinal disturbances, jaundice, weight loss, fatigue, abdominal and back pain, changes in bowel habits, and psychological symptoms. Early recognition of these symptoms can aid in the timely diagnosis and potentially improve the prognosis for patients with pancreatic cancer.
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