Cases of pancreatic cancer have been increasing throughout the United States over the past few decades. Although the 5-year survival rate recently rose to 12%, pancreatic cancer is on track to become the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the country. According to an article in Medical XPress, researchers from Duke Health are working to improve early identification through biomarkers. More specifically, these biomarkers could help to determine whether precancerous cysts called intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) might progress to become pancreatic cancer.
The research team notes that, in a large number of cases, IPMNs will remain benign. However, there is a subset of cases in which these become cancerous. In the past, it has been difficult to characterize IPMNs and how they might progress. So the researchers put together a tool called digital spatial RNA profiling. Through this tool, they could look at abnormal cells on the cyst, as well as potentially identify various genetic mutations that could contribute to pancreatic cancer.
In their study findings, published in Scientific Advances, the research team identified biomarkers for low-risk IPMNs and cellular changes, high-risk IPMNs and cellular changes, and a third variant that tends to be less aggressive. Moving forward, the research team hopes to determine whether they can identify these biomarkers within the cyst fluid. If this becomes possible, scientists may be able to identify what cysts are precancerous and aid in their removal prior to the oncological changes. The research team is also looking to explore whether anti-inflammatory treatment could prevent pancreatic cancer development in people with IPMNs.
About Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer typically begins in the pancreatic ducts; this form is called exocrine pancreatic cancer, or pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In rarer cases, pancreatic cancer may form in neuroendocrine cells, which produce hormones; these are called Islet cell tumors. There are a number of risk factors which increase the risk of developing this cancer, such as:
- Smoking tobacco/cigarettes
- Being obese
- Having a family history of pancreatic cancer
- Being male
- Older age
In early stages, pancreatic cancer is often asymptomatic, meaning it shows no symptoms. Symptoms tend to appear once the cancer has progressed. When symptoms appear, they may include:
- Dark urine and light stools
- Appetite loss
- Fatigue
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes)
- Newly onset or worsening diabetes
- Unintentional weight loss
- Blood clots
- Itchy skin
- Abdominal pain that radiates to the back
- Bowel obstructions
To diagnose pancreatic cancer, physicians may use a combination of physical exams and history, CT scans and MRIs, ultrasounds, biopsies, blood and tumor marker tests, and laparoscopies. After the cancer is staged, treatment can begin. Treatment varies based on the stage, patient’s health, and cancer location.
