Pancreatitis vs Pancreatic Cancer: What’s the Difference?

Pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer are two different diseases of the pancreas, however, some of their signs and risk factors are similar, so a careful and accurate diagnosis is important. Both conditions require specialized attention and treatment, prompting hospitals like Apex Multispeciality Hospitals to promote a tailor-made approach by accurately diagnosing each of their patients. 

What is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, and can be either acute or chronic. The acute form of pancreatitis tends to come on suddenly, causing severe pain in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and fever. This is usually triggered by a gallbladder stone or in some cases heavy use of alcohol. Chronic pancreatitis will and very often at times occur from inflammation that goes on in the pancreas for an extended period of time. Simply put, this leads to chronic pain, loss of weight, and oil-like stools that lead to digestive issues.

• Causes of Pancreatitis
  • Gallbladder stones 
  • Abuse of alcohol 
  • Family history 
  • Autoimmune diseases 
  • Elevated triglyceride levels 
• Treatment for Pancreatitis
  • Hospital admissions and pain management 
  • IV fluids and nutritional management 
  • Treat underlying causes, e.g. stopping alcohol use and stopping medications 
  • Dietary changes that contribute to low-fat diet or alcohol/tobacco use avoidance 

What is Pancreatic Cancer?

Pancreatic cancer occurs when abnormal cells start to proliferate in the pancreas. The most prevalent type is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Unlike pancreatitis where abdominal pain can be a major sign, pancreatic cancer displays few symptoms in its earlier stages, and many patients are only diagnosed at an advanced stage due to the non-specific early symptoms. 

Symptoms of pancreatic cancer may include: 

1. Jaundice (or yellowing of the skin and eyes).
2. Pain in the abdomen or back.
3. Sudden weight loss.
4. Loss of appetite. 
5. Fatigue.
6. Dark urine and light stools.

Risk factors for pancreatic cancer include: 

1. Smoking
2. Family history of cancer. 
3. Chronic pancreatitis. 
4. Diabetes mellitus. 

Treatment options for pancreatic cancer include: 

1. Surgery (Whipple procedure, pancreatectomy). 
2. Chemotherapy. 
3. Radiotherapy. 
4. Palliative care for advanced disease.

Key Differences: Pancreatitis vs Pancreatic Cancer

Treatment Approaches at Apex Multispeciality Hospitals

Apex Multispeciality Hospitals prioritize early detection, the precise delineation of cancerous or inflammatory conditions, and multidisciplinary treatment in offering care of pancreatic disease. This care includes:

• Advanced diagnostic imaging and laboratory testing
• Individualized treatment based on the severity and type of the patient’s condition
• Expert teams capable of delivering surgical, medical and supportive therapies
• Comprehensive monitoring of the patient to signal early complications. 

Final Thoughts

Understanding the distinction between pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer is important for adequate treatment and recovery. Apex Multispeciality Hospitals would like to maintain its commitment to quality gastrointestinal health by providing advanced diagnoses and individualized treatments for its patients. If you would like more information or would like to schedule a consultation, visit their website or contact their specialists directly. 

FAQs

1. Can pancreatitis become pancreatic cancer?

The risk of pancreatic cancer may increase due to persistent inflammation and genetic alteration in the setting of chronic pancreatitis. 

2. What are the early warning signs of pancreatic cancer?

The early symptoms of pancreatic cancer most classically present as unexplained weight loss, stomach discomfort and jaundice; most early cases however are less obvious and there can be little or no symptoms until later stages of the disease.

3. Can both diseases lead to diabetes?

Both chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer can affect insulin production leading to diabetes mellitus.

4. Why is an accurate diagnosis important?


The treatment for pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer differ greatly, having an accurate diagnosis can inform necessary treatment leading to significant improvement outcomes. 

1. Can pancreatitis turn into pancreatic cancer?

Chronic pancreatitis may raise the risk of pancreatic cancer due to persistent inflammation and genetic changes.​

2. What are the early warning signs of pancreatic cancer?

Early signs often include unexplained weight loss, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice, but many cases are silent until advanced stages.​

3. Can both diseases cause diabetes?

Both chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer can impair insulin production, resulting in diabetes mellitus.​

4. Why is accurate diagnosis important?

Treatment for pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer differs drastically. Accurate diagnosis ensures suitable treatment and can improve outcomes significantly.