Diagnostic and therapeutic 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 GI-related carcinomas. It usually presents late in its course. The clinical features are discussed, with emphasis on those that allow earl y detection of the disease, as well as a review of diagnostic methods and p re- and perioperative staging, which will allow the appropriate application of surgical and palliative therapeutic modalities. Despite the significant progress that has been made, further research studies are needed to advanc e our therapeutic approach to this aggressive cancer. (C) 2000 Editions sci entifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.