C25: Malignant neoplasm of pancreas

Malignant neoplasm of the pancreas is a serious condition involving the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the pancreas, a small organ that plays an important role in digestion and hormone production. These cancers are often difficult to detect early because they generally do not cause noticeable symptoms until they are more advanced. Symptoms can include abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and eyes), and digestive problems. There can be different types of these cancers depending on exactly which cell type in the pancreas has become malignant. Some risk factors for developing pancreatic cancer include smoking, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, and certain inherited conditions. The progression of this disease can impact not only the pancreas but other organs and systems in the body, as it may spread (metastasize) to nearby or distant areas.