Pancreatic cysts are sac-like outgrowths of fluid that develop on or within the pancreas. Often leading to cancer, such structures are an added concern for people with diabetes, as they are more susceptible to developing them due to certain changes in the body that result from high blood sugar levels.
“For people with diabetes, the risk of developing pancreatic cysts is three and a half times higher,” says Dr Mani Deepthi, endocrinologist, Apollo Hospital, Bangalore. High blood sugar levels can play a major role in the formation of cystic lesions in the pancreas, even in those with no prior history of pancreatic disorders.
Pancreatic cysts: Can they lead to cancer?
All cysts aren’t malignant, and the case is the same for those in the pancreas. However, people with diabetes who also have pancreatic cysts are more vulnerable to cancer. “The risk of malignancy is higher in those with both conditions. Hence, it’s important to rule out cystic lesions while addressing high blood sugar levels,” elaborates Dr Deepthi.
Why can people with diabetes develop pancreatic cysts?
According to experts, those with high blood sugar levels are susceptible to pancreatic cysts due to the following conditions:
♦ Chronic hyperglycemia
“Chronic high blood sugar levels contribute to pancreatic damage and dysfunction,” says Dr Neeraj Nagaich, senior consultant, gastroenterology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Jaipur. He adds that it can cause inflammation and fibrosis in the pancreas, creating an environment conducive to cyst formation.
♦ Pancreatitis
Dr Uddhavesh Paithankar, consultant gastroenterologist at Manipal Hospital, Gurugram, explains that diabetes is associated with an increased likelihood of pancreatitis — a condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas. Recurrent or chronic pancreatitis raises the risk of cyst development, as inflammation causes the pancreatic enzymes to leak, damaging the tissues of the organ.
♦ Obesity and insulin resistance
Dr Deepthi says diabetes is linked to obesity; the excess adipose tissue can compress the pancreas, impeding its normal function and promoting cyst growth. In people with obesity, adipose tissue releases higher amounts of fatty acids, glycerol, hormones and pro-inflammatory cytokines (proteins that promote inflammation). They also have many internal comorbidities that lead to insulin resistance. In such a case, insulin produced by the pancreas is not properly utilized for glucose metabolism. The condition may contribute to pancreatic abnormalities, fostering conditions favorable for cyst formation.
Type 3c diabetes: What are its causes?
“Type 3c diabetes, also known as pancreatogenic diabetes, is caused by damage to the pancreas resulting from pancreatic surgery or cysts that can progress to conditions like chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic tumors,” says Dr Paithankar. It occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce sufficient insulin and pancreatic enzymes crucial for digestion, further impairing glucose regulation. However, not everyone with type 2 diabetes will develop pancreatogenic diabetes. “While people with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cysts, it does not necessarily mean it will automatically progress to type 3c diabetes,” shares Dr Deepthi.
Pancreatic cysts: Who is most vulnerable?
A study conducted in the US between 2015 and 2020 found that people diagnosed with diabetes mellitus were more likely to have a diagnosis of pancreatic cysts. In addition, older adults with diabetes (over 65 years old) and those having high blood sugar levels with a history of smoking, obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia (high lipid levels) or coronary artery disease were at increased risk of developing cysts in the pancreas.
According to Dr Paithankar, technological advancements have resulted in increased detection of pancreatic cysts. “Advanced CT scans and MRIs can detect these cysts early and help doctors treat them in time,” he adds.
Such cysts can be prevented if people switch to a healthy lifestyle, keeping comorbidities like obesity and pancreatitis at bay.
Precautions to prevent pancreatic cysts
According to experts, some precautionary measures that people can take to prevent pancreatic cysts include:
♦ Maintaining an ideal body weight and healthy blood sugar levels through regular exercise.
♦ Ensuring regular health checkups, limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking.
♦ Reducing carb intake and following a healthy diet. Fiber-rich foods (like tomatoes and bell peppers), non-starchy vegetables (such as leafy greens, broccoli and cauliflower), legumes (like beans and chickpeas) and whole grains (such as whole oats and quinoa) can help keep blood sugar levels in check.
Takeaways
- According to experts, people with diabetes are highly susceptible to developing pancreatic cysts. Conditions like chronic high blood sugar levels, pancreatitis, insulin resistance and obesity increase the risk of such cysts.
- Damage to the pancreas resulting from chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic tumors or pancreatic surgery can give rise to a condition called pancreatogenic or type 3c diabetes. However, not everyone with type 2 diabetes will develop the condition.
- Cysts in the pancreas can be prevented by measures like regular exercise, routine health checkups and a healthy diet comprising fiber-rich foods, legumes, non-starchy vegetables and whole grains.
