Pancreatic Neoplasm/Tumor
A pancreatic neoplasm, or pancreatic tumor, refers to any abnormal growth within the pancreas. These tumors can be benign, pre-cancerous, or malignant, and include a wide range of types such as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, neuroendocrine tumors, cystic neoplasms, and benign lesions. Symptoms vary depending on the type, size, and location of the tumor, and many are discovered incidentally during imaging performed for unrelated concerns.
What is it?
A pancreatic neoplasm is an abnormal growth that develops from the cells of the pancreas. Tumors may arise from the exocrine cells, which produce digestive enzymes, or the endocrine cells, which produce hormones. Exocrine tumors—such as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma—are the most common and often aggressive, while neuroendocrine tumors tend to be slower-growing and may produce hormones that cause specific symptoms.
Imaging helps identify the type, location, and characteristics of a pancreatic tumor. CT and MRI provide detailed information about tumor size, ductal involvement, vascular invasion, and possible spread to nearby structures. EUS is frequently used for detailed evaluation and to obtain tissue samples when necessary.
Important to Know
Pancreatic tumors vary greatly in behavior. Some cystic or neuroendocrine tumors are slow-growing and may require only surveillance, while others—especially pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma—can be aggressive and require urgent evaluation. Early detection improves treatment options, though early tumors may cause few or no symptoms.
Red flags include sudden or persistent jaundice, new or worsening abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, recurrent pancreatitis, or new-onset diabetes in adults. Follow-up imaging is often needed to monitor tumor growth, treatment response, or potential recurrence after therapy.