Does a Shadow on the Pancreas Always Indicate Cancer?

Q: Does a Shadow on the Pancreas Always Indicate Cancer?

Hello： It is recommended to wait for the CT scan report and not to seek medical attention elsewhere. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai An-shun.

Does the presence of a shadow on the pancreas always indicate cancer?

Hello: Recently, an ultrasound revealed a 2.8 cm shadow on my pancreas.
The doctor didn't say much, only that I need to get a CT scan.
That afternoon, I went to another hospital for another ultrasound, and they mentioned that it looks more like a cyst, but they were also unsure and recommended a CT scan.
At the same time, I had a blood test for CA 19-9, which came back at 17.
Does this mean I have cancer? I had surgery for a pituitary tumor in April; could this be related?

andyw, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/13

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It is recommended to wait for the CT scan report and not to seek medical attention elsewhere.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2016/09/13

More Info

When a shadow or lesion is detected on the pancreas during imaging studies such as an ultrasound, it does not automatically indicate cancer. The pancreas can present various types of abnormalities, including cysts, benign tumors, or even inflammatory changes, which may appear as shadows on imaging studies. In your case, the ultrasound showed a 2.8 cm shadow on the pancreas, and a subsequent ultrasound suggested it might resemble a cyst. This discrepancy highlights the importance of further diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan, which can provide more detailed information about the nature of the lesion.

The CA 19-9 tumor marker you mentioned, with a level of 17, is within the normal range (typically considered normal below 37 U/mL). While elevated levels of CA 19-9 can be associated with pancreatic cancer, they are not definitive for diagnosis. Many benign conditions can also cause elevated CA 19-9 levels, and conversely, normal levels do not rule out cancer. Therefore, your current CA 19-9 level does not indicate that you will develop cancer.

Regarding your previous surgery for a pituitary tumor, it is unlikely to be directly related to the pancreatic findings. The pancreas and pituitary gland are part of different systems in the body, and issues in one do not typically influence the other. However, it is essential to consider your overall health and any other medical conditions you may have when discussing potential risks.

In summary, a shadow on the pancreas does not always indicate cancer. It is crucial to follow up with the recommended CT scan for a more accurate assessment. The CT scan will help determine whether the lesion is a benign cyst, a solid mass, or something else entirely. If the CT scan shows a cystic lesion, it may require monitoring rather than immediate intervention. If it appears solid or suspicious, further evaluation, including possible biopsy, may be warranted.

It is also important to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance based on the results of your imaging studies and any additional tests that may be necessary. If you have concerns about your health or the implications of these findings, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor. They can help clarify the situation and outline the next steps in your care.

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