PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the most common type of cancer affecting pancreatic ductal epithelium?

1. Carcinoid tumor

2. Adenocarcinoma

3. Neuroendocrine tumor

4. Acinar cell carcinoma

The correct answer is: Adenocarcinoma

The most common type of cancer affecting pancreatic ductal epithelium is adenocarcinoma. This malignancy arises from the exocrine component of the pancreas, specifically from the ductal cells that line the pancreatic ducts. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is known for its aggressive nature and late presentation, which contributes to a poor prognosis. This type of cancer often presents with symptoms that may be vague or attributed to other conditions, leading to a delay in diagnosis. Risk factors include smoking, chronic pancreatitis, and certain genetic syndromes, which increase the likelihood of developing adenocarcinoma. In contrast, other types of pancreatic tumors, such as carcinoid tumors and neuroendocrine tumors, are far less common. They originate from different cellular components, and while they can also affect the pancreas, they do not involve the ductal epithelium as adenocarcinoma does. Acinar cell carcinoma is also less frequent compared to adenocarcinoma, making it a rarer form of pancreatic cancer. Thus, the prominence of adenocarcinoma in the context of pancreatic ductal cancer makes it the correct choice.