What is Primary Pancreatic Lymphoma or Primary Lymphoma of the Pancreas?
Primary pancreatic lymphoma is a rare type of pancreatic tumour. It usually develops as a single mass in the pancreas, similar to that of pancreatic carcinoma. Patients with primary pancreatic lymphoma typically present with symptoms of pain in the abdomen, yellowish discolouration of the skin and eyes, diarrhea, weight loss, and symptoms of intestinal obstruction such as constipation, vomiting, bloating, and loss of appetite.
Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, but it is believed that certain heredity and genetic mutations are responsible for the development of primary pancreatic lymphoma. Primary pancreatic lymphoma accounts for approximately 0.5% of all types of tumours or masses of the pancreas.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Pain in the abdomen
- Yellowish discolouration of the skin and eyes
- Lose motion
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Palpable (felt-able) mass in the abdomen
- Pain on touch on the right upper side of the abdomen
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis; these are
- Imaging techniques like CT-scan, MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography), MRI, TUS (transcutaneous ultrasonography), and PET-scan.
- Endoscopic USG
- CBC ( complete blood count)
- BSR( Blood sugar random), Fasting blood sugar, and GTT ( glucose tolerance test)
- Histopathological examination of the pancreatic cell’s tumour
- Raised serum alpha-fetoprotein
- Fine needle aspiration cytology
Treatment
The main treatment is surgery (surgical removal of the cancerous part of the pancreas and the other tumour sites). Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are treatment options for advanced metastatic cases.
What Support can we Give for Primary Pancreatic Lymphoma?
Primary Pancreatic Lymphoma is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Primary Pancreatic Lymphoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
