Imaging Diagnostics in Pancreatic Cancer from the Perspective of an Oncologist

Abstract

Medical therapy plays a vital role in the neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and palliative management of patients with pancreatic cancer. The medical therapeutic options are largely limited to chemotherapy, and thus consideration for toxicity to balance with intended anticancer effect is requisite. The possible goals of therapy therefore need clear establishment at the outset. Various imaging modalities are an important part of the toolset needed to ascertain the baseline status of a cancer in terms of potential for resection, which will ultimately guide the treatments recommended and sequences of their use. These same imaging modalities remain critical to the assessment of treatment response over time. A considered understanding on how to use these imaging tools is important to ensure that a thorough and focused assessment of a patient’s cancer is achieved, and to tailor management to the individualized goals of the patient. In this chapter, the role of various imaging modalities will be discussed in the context of oncologic management.