Endoscopic Ultrasound of the Pancreas

 

J.C is an 82-year-old white man who was evaluated by GI specialist due to abdominal discomfort, loss of appetite, weight lost, weakness and occasional nausea.
Past Medical History (PMH):
Patient is Diabetic, controlled with Metformin 500 mg by mouth twice a day, Lantus 15 units SC bedtime. Hypertensive, controlled with Olmesartan 20 mg by mouth once a day. Atrial Fibrillation, controlled with Rivaroxaban 15 mg by mouth once a day and bisoprolol 10 mg by mouth once a day.
Labs:
Hb 12.7 g/dl; Hct 38.8% WBC 8.2; Glycemia 74mg/dl; Creatinine 0.8 mg/dl; BUN 9.8 mg/dl; AST 21 U/L ALT 17 U/L; Bil T 1.90 mg/dl; Ind 0.69 mg/dl; Dir 1.21 mg/dl.

Diagnostic test:
Endoscopic Ultrasound of the Pancreas. Solid mass in the head of pancreas 4 cms, infiltrating Wirsung duct. The solid mass impress to infiltrate the superior mesenteric vein. Perilesional node is detected, 1.5 cms, metastatic aspect. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy: Ductal adenocarcinoma.
Case study questions:

Please name the potential most common sites for metastasis on J.C and why?
What are tumor cell markers and why tumor cell markers are ordered for a patient with pancreatic cancer?
Based on the case study described, proceed to classify the tumor based on the TNM Stage classification. Why this classification important?
Discussed characteristic of malignant tumors regarding it cells, growth and ability to spread.
Describe the carcinogenesis phase when a tumor metastasizes.

Sample Solution

Based on the information provided, J.C. presents with several concerning findings suggestive of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly aggressive form of cancer. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

Clinical Presentation:

  • Symptoms: Abdominal discomfort, loss of appetite, weight loss, weakness, and occasional nausea are classic symptoms of PDAC.
  • Age: J.C.’s age puts him at increased risk for PDAC, with the incidence rising significantly after 50.
  • Comorbidities: Diabetes, hypertension, and atrial fibrillation are common comorbidities in PDAC patients.

Laboratory Findings:

  • Normal blood counts: While not always indicative, normal Hb, Hct, and WBC could suggest early-stage disease.
  • Elevated bilirubin: Increased total bilirubin (Bil T) and direct bilirubin (Dir) suggest potential bile duct obstruction, consistent with the tumor location.
  • Normal liver enzymes: AST and ALT levels are within normal range, which might be seen in early PDAC but can be misleading.

Diagnostic Test:

  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): Detecting a solid mass in the head of the pancreas infiltrating the Wirsung duct and superior mesenteric vein is highly suggestive of PDAC.
  • Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy: Confirming the presence of ductal adenocarcinoma through biopsy solidifies the diagnosis.

Overall:

J.C.’s clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and diagnostic test results strongly indicate pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Unfortunately, PDAC at this stage with infiltration of surrounding vessels and possible lymph node metastasis is considered advanced and has a poor prognosis.

Next Steps:

J.C.’s case requires immediate consultation with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists. They will discuss treatment options based on J.C.’s overall health, tumor stage, and available resources. Treatment options for advanced PDAC may include:

  • Palliative surgery: Aiming to relieve symptoms like pain and improve quality of life, not cure the cancer.
  • Chemotherapy: Can be used to shrink the tumor and control its growth.
  • Radiation therapy: Can be used to shrink the tumor and relieve pain.
  • Pain management: Crucial for improving J.C.’s quality of life.

Additional Points:

  • Further tests like CT scan or MRI may be needed for staging and treatment planning.
  • Supportive care, including nutritional counseling and psychological support, plays a vital role in managing advanced cancer.
  • Open communication with J.C. and his family about the diagnosis, treatment options, and prognosis is essential.

Disclaimer: This analysis is based on the information provided and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with J.C.’s healthcare team for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

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