Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026

Reprogramming Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma to Pluripotency
Published on: February 2, 2024
Sister Mary Joseph's nodule as a first sign of pancreatic cancer
Xue-Li Bai1, Qi Zhang, Waqas Masood
1Department of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang Province, China.
Abstract:
Sister Mary Joseph's nodule (SMJN) refers to a metastatic tumor of the umbilicus. It is a rare entity which arises from a malignancy in the intra-abdominal cavity. We herein describe a patient who presented with SMJN as his first sign of pancreatic cancer. It is an even more unusual case of SMJN. We therefore, suggest that pancreatic cancer should be included in the differential diagnosis when an umbilical mass is found. With the progress made in surgical procedures and other modalities, an early diagnosis will dramatically improve the prognosis of the patients.
Related Concept Videos
Pancreas
The broad head of the pancreas lies within the loop formed by the duodenum, while its slender body reaches towards the spleen. The tail of the pancreas is short and...
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
Pancreatic Juice and Secretion
When acidic chyme from the stomach enters the duodenum, it triggers the release of secretin, a hormone that prompts pancreatic juice secretion. After a fatty meal, cholecystokinin, another hormone, stimulates gallbladder contraction and enhances enzyme-rich...