Diagnostic approach to pancreatic cancer

Adenocarcinoma of the pancreas ranks fourth as a cause of cancer death in a dults in the United States and is the second most common cause of cancer de aths of all gastrointestinal-related carcinomas. It usually presents late i n its course. In this article, the authors discuss the clinical features of pancreatic cancer, with emphasis on those that allow early detection of th e disease. They also review diagnostic methods and preoperative and periope rative staging that allows the appropriate application of surgical and pall iative therapeutic modalities. Despite the significant progress that has be en made, further research studies are needed to advance the therapeutic app roach to this aggressive cancer.