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How does a pancreatic tumor cause jaundice?
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pancreatic cancer
The human pancreas is composed of two main types of tissue: acinar cells and islets of Langerhans. The acinar cells produce digestive enzymes, which are secreted into tiny ducts that feed into the pancreatic duct. Islets of Langerhans are clusters of cells that secrete hormones such as insulin and glucagon directly into a capillary network, which also joins the pancreatic duct.
A pancreatic tumor causes jaundice through a mechanism known as cholestatic, or obstructive, jaundice.1
As a pancreatic tumor grows, particularly when it is located in the head of the pancreas, it can physically compress or block the common bile duct. This anatomical obstruction prevents the normal flow of bile, which leads to a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Because the liver is unable to transport bilirubin through the blocked biliary tract, the pigment accumulates in the body, resulting in the characteristic yellowing of the skin and eyes known as jaundice.231