PANCREATIC-CARCINOMA

Progress is being made in understanding the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer at the molecular level. It has been demonstrated that growth factor receptors can accelerate the growth of tumors in culture, but clinical trials with various antagonists have failed to improve the therapy for this disease. Studies have been presented this year showing better outcomes from surgical approaches if diagnosis is made earlier. Early diagnosis by standard means such as computed tomography scanning remain elusive. Many serum markers for pancreatic carcinoma have been identified; however, although useful for following the course of the disease, these markers remain nonspecific unless serum levels are exceptionally elevated. Endoscopic biliary stenting has great potential in obviating laparotomy in patients in need of palliation but is limited by the high occlusion rate of the stents.