Types of Pancreatic Cancer 

All types of pancreatic cancer begin when abnormal cells grow out of control within the pancreas.  There are two types of cells in the pancreas, the exocrine cells and endocrine cells.  These cells also have different functions.
 
95% of pancreatic cancers are classified as exocrine tumors because they begin in the exocrine cells that produce enzymes to aid in digestion.  Click here to learn about types of exocrine tumors in the pancreas.

Accounting for less than 5% of all pancreatic tumors are endocrine tumors, also called neuroendocrine or islet cell tumors.  Islet cells of the pancreas produce hormones including insulin, glucagon and somatostatin.  A major function of these hormones is to control the amount of sugar in the blood.  Endocrine tumors may be benign or malignant and tend to be slower growing than exocrine tumors.  In addition, these tumors are categorized as functional (produce hormones) or nonfunctional (produce no hormones).  The majority of functional endocrine tumors are benign.  However, 90% of nonfunctional endocrine tumors are malignant, or cancerous.  Click here to learn about types of endocrine tumors in the pancreas.

The information and services provided by the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Inc. are for informational purposes only.  The information and services are not intended to be substitutes for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  If you are ill, or suspect that you are ill, see a doctor immediately!  The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network does not recommend nor endorse any specific physicians, products or treatments even though they may be mentioned on this site.  080929