8. Enlarged Gallbladder: The Hidden Indicator
This small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver has a crucial function – storing and releasing bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats. Most people might not give it a second thought unless something goes wrong.
As the tumor in the pancreas grows, it can start to press against the bile duct or even block it. When the bile cannot flow into the small intestine as it typically would, it backs up into the gallbladder. This backup causes the gallbladder to swell, leading to its enlargement.
An enlarged gallbladder might not always present clear external symptoms. Often, it’s detected during routine physical examinations or imaging studies for unrelated conditions. However, if accompanied by pain in the upper right abdomen or other PDAC symptoms, it serves as a more distinct red flag.
This symptom underscores the need for regular health check-ups. While an enlarged gallbladder might not immediately scream “pancreatic cancer,” when viewed in conjunction with other signs, it becomes a piece of the diagnostic puzzle. Identifying this sign early can be instrumental in determining the presence and stage of PDAC. (8)
