Overview
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most common and aggressive types of cancer, and can be difficult to diagnose due to its non-specific symptoms. However, there are several other diseases that can mimic the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer, making it difficult to accurately diagnose.
List of Diseases Mistaken for Pancreatic Cancer
Chronic Pancreatitis - Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can be caused by either an acute or chronic infection. The symptoms of chronic pancreatitis are similar to those of pancreatic cancer, including abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, and jaundice.
Gallbladder Cancer - Gallbladder cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the gallbladder and can mimic the symptoms of pancreatic cancer. Common symptoms of gallbladder cancer include abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, and nausea.
Liver Disease - Liver disease can cause a variety of symptoms that are similar to those of pancreatic cancer, including abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, and nausea. Common liver diseases include hepatitis and cirrhosis.
Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors - Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a type of cancer that affects the pancreas and can mimic the symptoms of pancreatic cancer. Common symptoms of NETs include abdominal pain, jaundice, and weight loss.
Pancreatic Pseudocysts - Pancreatic pseudocysts are non-cancerous fluid-filled cysts that can mimic the symptoms of pancreatic cancer. Common symptoms of pseudocysts include abdominal pain, weight loss, and nausea.
Conclusion
Due to the non-specific symptoms of pancreatic cancer, it can be difficult to diagnose and it can be mistaken for other diseases. Common diseases that can be mistaken for pancreatic cancer include chronic pancreatitis, gallbladder cancer, liver disease, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, and pancreatic pseudocysts. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of these diseases in order to ensure an accurate diagnosis.