Abstract
Sporadic pancreatic cancer (SPC) has been frequently associated with impaired glucose homeostasis manifested by prediabetes, Type 2 diabetes or predominantly by T3c diabetes which develops as the first symptom of cancer. Pathogenic mechanisms in the development of T3c diabetes have not been fully elucidated although specific substances originating in the tumor cells are supposed to be the cause of β-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance.
New biomarkers evaluated in patients with recent-onset diabetes are necessary for the early diagnosis of this tumor. Actual data characterizing risk factors, early symptoms, pathogenic mechanisms, biomarkers and structured programs in detection of SPC are described.
A multidisciplinary team of primary care physicians, gastroenterologists, endoscopists, radiologists and pathologists should improve the prognosis of this malignant disease.