Pancreatic

The American Cancer Society has determined that pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death, is the cause of 3% of cancers, and 7% of all cancer deaths in the United States. They estimate that in the US, 64,050 people will be diagnosed with, and 50,550 will die of, pancreatic cancer in 2023. According to the National Institute of Health, acute pancreatitis is also responsible for 275,000 hospital stays in the US each year. 

A number of illness concerns can arise due to a change in the state and functioning of the pancreas such as cancer, pancreatitis, and pancreatic insufficiency (malabsorption condition). Chronic cases of pancreatitis can potentially lead to diabetes and contribute to developing pancreatic cancer. 

The pancreas, as both an organ and a gland, produces enzymes for digestion and hormones for blood sugar control. It is flat and elongated, and lies horizontally behind the stomach. Pancreatic tests assess the status and functioning of the pancreas by exploring for the presence of specific hormones and enzymes. Some of these tests include:

• Access Medical Labs' Amylase, 24 Hour Urine
• Access Medical Labs' Lipase

Pancreatic enzymes break down various food types namely trypsin and chymotrypsin for proteins, amylase for carbohydrates, and lipase for fats. Altered functioning of this organ can thus lead to malabsorption of these foods and damage the pancreas. The hormones produced by the pancreas regulate blood sugar with insulin lowering sugar levels and glucagon raising them. Disruption in gland functioning can lead to diabetes.

Diet and lifestyle practices can have significant influence on the development of a pancreatic disorder with alcohol consumption, obesity, and smoking increasing risks.

Patients with pancreatic concerns can present with:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloating
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever
• Tachycardia
• Upper abdominal pain
• Tender abdomen
• Abdominal pain radiates to the back
• Yellowing of skin and eyes
• Loose, oily, clay-colored stools (steatorrhea)
• Sudden, unexpected development of type 2 diabetes

What do pancreatic tests measure?

Pancreatic tests assess blood and urine samples to identify presence and levels of specific enzymes and hormones usually produced by the pancreas. A number of testing panels are available such as the following examples.

• Access Medical Labs' Insulin, Fasting: A blood sample is assessed for insulin to determine production capabilities in diabetes and hypoglycemia.
• Access Medical Labs' Amylase, 24 Hour Urine: A urine sample is collected over 24 hours and assessed for amylase levels.
• Access Medical Labs' Lipase: A sample of blood is analyzed for lipase with very high levels usually indicative of acute pancreatitis.

A physical examination, health and family history, list of symptoms, and the results from pancreatic testing can help determine the cause of patient health concerns. Additional assessments such as imaging tests like ultrasounds, CT, ERCP, and MRCP, and stool testing may be required. A biopsy is likely for a potential cancer diagnosis.