Understanding the Various Stages and Types of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a complex and challenging disease, often diagnosed in its later stages due to its subtle early symptoms. As a top liver and cancer specialist in New York City, Dr. Dmitri Alden, MD, FACS, is dedicated to providing expert care and personalized treatment options for patients facing this serious condition. Understanding the different types and stages of pancreatic cancer is crucial for effective treatment and improving outcomes.

Types of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer primarily originates in the pancreas, a vital organ responsible for producing enzymes that aid digestion and hormones that regulate blood sugar. There are several types of pancreatic cancer, each with distinct characteristics.

Exocrine Pancreatic Cancer

Exocrine tumors are the most common type of pancreatic cancer, accounting for about 95% of cases. These tumors originate in the exocrine cells, which are responsible for producing digestive enzymes. The most common form of exocrine pancreatic cancer is adenocarcinoma, which typically begins in the ducts of the pancreas. Key features include:

• Aggressive Nature: Exocrine pancreatic cancers tend to grow quickly and can spread to other parts of the body early in the disease.
• Common Symptoms: Symptoms may include jaundice, weight loss, abdominal pain, and digestive issues.

Endocrine Pancreatic Cancer

Endocrine tumors, also known as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), are less common and arise from the hormone-producing cells of the pancreas. These tumors can be functional (producing excess hormones) or non-functional (not producing hormones). Features of NETs include:

• Slower Growth: Endocrine tumors generally grow more slowly than exocrine tumors.
• Hormonal Symptoms: Functional tumors may cause symptoms related to hormone overproduction, such as low blood sugar (insulinomas) or high stomach acid levels (gastrinomas).

Stages of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer staging is a critical factor in determining the appropriate treatment approach. The stages are classified based on the tumor’s size, location, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

Stage 0: Carcinoma in Situ

In this early stage, abnormal cells are found only in the lining of the pancreas and have not spread to nearby tissues. This stage is often referred to as carcinoma in situ and is rarely detected because it typically presents no symptoms.

Stage I: Localized Cancer

At Stage I, the cancer is confined to the pancreas and is usually less than 2 cm in size (Stage IA) or between 2-4 cm (Stage IB). Surgical removal of the tumor is often possible at this stage.

Stage II: Local Spread

Stage II pancreatic cancer has spread beyond the pancreas to nearby tissues and possibly the lymph nodes but not to distant sites. Treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Stage III: Locally Advanced

In Stage III, the cancer has spread to major blood vessels near the pancreas and may involve lymph nodes. Surgery may not be an option, and treatment typically focuses on managing the disease with chemotherapy and radiation.

Stage IV: Metastatic

Stage IV pancreatic cancer has spread to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, or peritoneum. At this advanced stage, treatment focuses on palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, often involving chemotherapy and targeted therapies.

Pancreatic cancer is a challenging disease with varying types and stages that require expert diagnosis and treatment. At the practice of Dr. Dmitri Alden in NYC, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for patients with pancreatic cancer, utilizing the latest advancements in medical technology and personalized treatment plans. Understanding the types and stages of pancreatic cancer is the first step in developing an effective treatment strategy. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alden and learn more about your treatment options.