| Theme |
Diagnostic Strategy for Early Stage Pancreatic Cancer |
| Title |
High-Risk Groups for Pancreatic Cancer |
| Author |
Shin Hamada |
Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine |
| Author |
Atsushi Masamune |
Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine |
| Author |
Tooru Shimosegawa |
Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine |
| [ Summary ] |
Adequate follow-up can facilitate the early detection of pancreatic cancer in high‒risk groups. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) and diabetes mellitus are common risk factors for pancreatic cancer ; thus, patients with these conditions should undergo imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) or ultrasonography (US). If a suspicious lesion is detected, further examinations such as endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) will be necessary. In cases of chronic pancreatitis, abstinence from alcohol and smoking cessation are very important in reducing the risk of cancer. Additionally, the possibility of hereditary tumor syndromes and familial pancreatic cancer must also be considered. However, the genetic examinations for these diseases are not usually covered by health insurance in Japan. |