Periampullary cancer develops near the ampulla of Vater, which is located near the joining of the bile and pancreatic duct. This type of Cancer can prove to be fatal if it starts spreading to other parts of the digestive system. They are found to be grouped together since they have the same characteristics, says a top gastro surgeon in Kolkata.
Symptoms of Periampullary Cancer:
One of the warning signs of this type is the yellowing of the skin as the cancer cells obstruct the flow of bile. According to the opinion of the best gastroenterologist surgeon in Kolkata, there might be some other signs as well, indicating you might be suffering from periampullary Cancer. Let’s know.
- Sudden loss of weight
- Pale and black stool
- Severe abdominal pain
- Itching
- Loss of appetite
If you have been suffering from these symptoms for a prolonged time, you must consult a gastrointestinal surgeon immediately.
Causes of Periampullary Cancer:
There have no established reports regarding the cause of periampullary Cancer, says a top gastro surgeon in Kolkata. It is mainly caused when abnormal cells form a lump and grow out of control near the ampulla of Vater. These cancer cells multiply themselves and spread to other parts of the body.
What are the types of Periampullary Cancer?
Periampullary cancer is of four types. Let’s know them in detail from a gastroenterologist surgeon.
- Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)
- Distal cholangiocarcinoma (DC)
- Ampullary cancer (AC)
- Duodenal adenocarcinoma (DA)
What are the treatment options?
The treatment of this type of Cancer depends upon the stage and its severity. Most gastroenterologist surgeons in Kolkata suggest surgery to patients as one of the most effective ways to remove cancer cells. The tumour is completely removed with RO resection as one of the prerequisites for proceeding with the treatment and this involves doing a surgery which is called Whipple’s pancreatoduodenectomy, which essentially involves removing the head of the pancreas, duodenum, distal part of the stomach, proximal part of the jejunum, gall bladder and the bile duct.
Following this bypass is made with the pancreas, stomach, bile duct so that the digestive tract is restored. This is a complex operation requiring 4 to 6 hours to complete however is extremely safe in most hands.
Conclusion:
There is nothing to fear even if you are diagnosed with periampullary cancer. With the right diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to lead a better quality of life.
