Name of the Condition

• Malignant neoplasm of pancreatic duct
• Also referred to as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

Summary

• Malignant neoplasm of the pancreatic duct is a type of cancer that originates in the ducts of the pancreas. It is one of the most common and aggressive forms of pancreatic cancer, affecting the gland responsible for both digestive enzyme production and hormonal regulation.

Causes

• The exact causes remain unclear, but it's believed to be a combination of genetic mutations and external factors. These may include tobacco smoking, chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), and obesity.

Risk Factors

• Smoking, age (most common after 60), a family history of pancreatic cancer, chronic pancreatitis, diabetes, and certain genetic syndromes, such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome.

Symptoms

• Symptoms often appear in advanced stages and may include jaundice, abdominal pain, weight loss, appetite loss, and depression, as well as new-onset diabetes.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and biopsy to confirm cancer cells. Blood tests may include markers like CA 19-9.

Treatment Options

• Treatment may involve surgical resection if the tumor is localized, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination thereof. Each treatment aims to remove or kill cancer cells, relieve symptoms, or prolong survival.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis is generally poor due to late-stage diagnosis, with a low 5-year survival rate. Regular follow-ups are crucial for managing symptoms, monitoring for recurrence, or evaluating treatment response.

Complications

• Potential complications include obstruction of the bile duct, leading to jaundice, and spread (metastasis) to other organs, such as the liver or lungs.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Prevention may include maintaining a healthy weight, ceasing smoking, managing chronic conditions like diabetes, and consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek immediate medical attention for unexplained weight loss, jaundice, persistent abdominal pain, or new-onset diabetes.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society: Pancreatic Cancer
• Pancreatic Cancer Action Network: Pancreatic Cancer Overview

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the diagnosis is specific to the pancreatic duct (C25.3).
• Avoid confusion with other pancreatic conditions or sites by verifying the specific location and nature of the tumor with healthcare providers.