5 typical clinical manifestations of pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a common malignant tumor, and its incidence has increased significantly in recent years. Pancreatic cancer can occur in the pancreatic head and around the pancreatic ampulla. Its typical clinical manifestations are:

1. Pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen

Upper abdominal pain and discomfort are the first symptoms of pancreatic cancer. In the early stage, due to the increase of intracavitary pressure caused by pancreatic duct obstruction, upper abdominal discomfort, or dull pain, or bloating may occur. 10% to 30% of patients have no pain symptoms. In the middle and late stages, the tumor invades the celiac plexus, and the pain intensifies. It may affect the upper abdomen and waist and back. It is difficult for patients to lie flat, and they often sit in a curled position, which affects their sleep and diet.

2. Jaundice

Progressive jaundice is a prominent manifestation of pancreatic head cancer. If the tumor is near the ampulla, jaundice may appear earlier. The patient's stool is clay-colored. The skin may turn brown or bronze, accompanied by obvious skin itching.

3. Digestive tract symptoms

Loss of appetite, abdominal distension, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, etc. are very common. A small number of patients will experience steatorrhea, hyperglycemia, and diabetes. In the late stage, gastrointestinal obstruction or bleeding may also occur.

4. Systemic symptoms

Patients experience systemic symptoms such as emaciation, fatigue, and weight loss due to reduced diet, indigestion, lack of sleep, and tumor consumption. Cachexia may occur in the late stage.

5. Physical examination

In addition to jaundice, there may be upper abdominal tenderness, and in the late stage, a mass may be felt on the upper abdominal surface. Due to cholestasis, the liver may often swell, and an enlarged spleen may be felt when the cancer compresses the splenic vein or splenic vein thrombosis occurs.