Because this type of tumor affects the pancreas’ secretion ducts, adenocarcinoma, as well as pancreatic cancer itself, is also referred to as exocrine cancer (Exocrine describes any gland that uses secretion ducts to dispel discharge).

Uncommonly, tumors develop in other areas of the pancreas, such as the islet cells, pancreatic cells that produce insulin. Depending on which islet cells tumors develop, the pancreas will start overproducing either glucagons (hormones that metabolize carbohydrates) or insulin (hormones that metabolize sugar).

Another uncommon type of pancreatic cancer occurs when malignant cells arise in the ampulla of Vater, the area in which the bile and pancreatic ducts meet the small intestine. Because the bile duct is directly affected in this type of pancreatic cancer, symptoms (such as jaundice, the yellowing of the skin and eyes) typically arise immediately.

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