NCUK Virtual Patient Handbook

Example 2: Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Cancer

As with lung or any other site, if the cancer starts peripherally, that is, from any main structures - eg tail of the pancreas, it may not cause an immediate signs or symptoms. However, if the cancer develops in the head of the pancreas it may ca blockage or interfere with the drainage of either (or both) the pancrea bile duct. • If the bile duct becomes blocked / obstructed, bile cannot reach the duodenum, so builds up and higher levels of bilirubin develop in the blood, which can lead to jaundice (a yellowing of the whites of the e and skin), fevers and/or steatorrhoea*. • If the pancreatic duct becomes blocked / obstructed, pancreatic juic which contain bicarbonate and digestive enzymes, may not reach th duodenum, which can lead to malabsorption of food and steatorrho Steatorrhoea* : bowel movements that may be difficult to flush away, a pale and oily appearance and can be especially foul-smelling! Not all obstructive symptoms may be related to cancer - infection, inflammation or obstruction due to stones eg gallstones - may also be causes of jaundice, pain and other symptoms.

NEUROENDOCRINE CANCER OF THE PANCREAS Click here to visit our website to read more

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