The pancreas is about 6 to 10 inches long (15 to 25 centimeters), 2 inches wide (5 centimeters), and is located behind the stomach. It is really two glands — the exocrine and endocrine — in the same organ.
The exocrine gland makes enzymes ("pancreatic juice") to break down fats and proteins in foods. Most of the pancreas is part of the exocrine system.
Endocrine cells make up the smaller part of the pancreas. They make insulin, which decreases blood sugar, and glucagon, which increases blood sugar.
Tumors can form in both parts of the pancreas. The exocrine pancreas is more likely to develop cancerous tumors, called adenocarcinomas. Endocrine tumors, called islet tumors or neuroendocrine tumors, are much less common. The exocrine and endocrine tumors have distinct signs and symptoms. They require different diagnostic and treatment methods.
Pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect and resists treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This makes it an especially serious type of cancer.
Learn about the causes, risks and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
The University of Kansas Hospital offers the most advanced diagnostic and treatment options in the region for pancreatic cancer.
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