A cost-minimization analysis of alternative strategies in diagnosing pancreatic cancer

Approach to Pancreatic Head Mass in the Background of Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer. CP may present with an inflammatory mass, and differentiation from pancreatic cancer is often difficult. Clinical suspicion of malignancy dictates a need for further evaluation for underlying pancreatic cancer. Imaging modalities remain the mainstay of evaluation for a mass in background CP; however, they have their shortcomings. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has become the go-to investigation. Adjunct modalities such as contrast-harmonic EUS and EUS elastography, as well as EUS-guided sampling using newer-generation needles are useful in differentiating inflammatory from malignant masses in the pancreas. Paraduodenal pancreatitis and autoimmune pancreatitis often masquerade as pancreatic cancer. In this narrative review, we discuss the various modalities used to differentiate inflammatory from malignant masses of the pancreas.

Current controversies and advances in the management of pancreatic adenocarcinoma

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is a lethal disease with a mortality rate that has not significantly improved over decades. This is likely due to several challenges unique to pancreatic cancer. Most patients with pancreatic cancer are diagnosed at a late stage of disease due to the lack of specific symptoms prompting an early investigation. A small subset of patients who are diagnosed at an early stage have a better chance at survival with curative surgical resection, but most patients still succumb to the disease in a few years. The dismal overall prognosis is due to suspected micro-metastasis at an early stage. Due to this reason, there is a recent interest in treating all patients with pancreatic cancers with systemic therapy upfront (including the ones that are surgically resectable). This approach is still not the standard of care due to the lack of robust prospective data available. Recent advancements in treatment regimens of chemotherapy, radiation and immunotherapy have improved the overall short-term survival but the long-term survival still remains poor. Novel approaches in diagnosis and treatment have shown promise in clinical studies but long-term clinical data is lacking. The following manuscript presents an overview of the epidemiology, diagnosis, staging, recent advances, novel approaches and controversies in the management of pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Intermittent endoscopic ultrasound guided fine-needle aspiration for the diagnosis of solid pancreatic lesions. Pilot study

Background and purpose of the study: endoscopic ultrasound guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is the method of choice for sampling pancreatic solid lesions. However, there is significant heterogeneity in terms of the technique used. Intermittent aspiration has not been evaluated in pancreatic solid lesions and could improve the diagnostic performance.

METHODS

Single-blind, non-inferiority pilot study. Patients with solid pancreatic lesions and indication for EUS-FNA were prospectively included. Patients were randomly assigned to intermittent (IS) or continuous (CS) suction techniques. Diagnostic performance, cellularity, blood contamination and number of passes required to reach diagnosis were evaluated.

MAIN RESULTS

33 patients were assigned to CS (16 patients) or IS (17 patients). Diagnostic performance was 87.5% for CS and 94.1% for IS (OR 2.29, 95%CI 0.19-27.99, p = 0.51). In the IS group samples had higher cellularity (OR 1.83, 95%CI 0.48-6.91, p = 0.37) and lower blood contamination (OR 0.38, 95%CI 0.09-1.54, p = 0.18). The number of passes required to reach diagnosis was 2.12 for CS and 1.94 for IS (p = 0.64). Liquid cytology was obtained in 73.3% of IS and 61.5% of CS (OR 1.72, 95%CI 0.35-8.50).

CONCLUSIONS

The IS technique was not inferior to CS in terms of diagnostic accuracy in the evaluation of pancreatic solid lesions, with a tendency to obtain higher cellularity, lower blood contamination and frequent presence of cell block.

Personalized Approach to the Role of Endoscopic Ultrasound in the Diagnosis and Management of Pancreaticobiliary Malignancies

Pancreaticobiliary malignancies arise from different areas within the pancreas and biliary tree. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a well-recognized diagnostic and therapeutic modality in the treatment of pancreaticobiliary diseases, and more specifically, pancreaticobiliary malignancies. Traditionally used for diagnostic purposes, EUS plays a critical role in tissue sampling and cancer staging. The emergence of the new field of interventional EUS has allowed EUS to also play a critical role in therapeutic management. Novel interventional EUS procedures such as EUS-guided gastrojejunostomy (EUS-GE), EUS-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD), and EUS-guided gallbladder drainage (EUS-GLB) can be utilized to treat complications of pancreaticobiliary malignancies such as gastric outlet obstruction, obstructive jaundice, and cholecystitis. In addition, interventional EUS procedures can be utilized for the palliation of unresectable malignancies both for source control with EUS-radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA) and for the treatment of abdominal pain refractory to opioid medications with EUS-guided celiac axis neurolysis. However, patient selection remains a critical component in both diagnostic and therapeutic interventions and must be tailored to individual patient wishes, disease pathology, and overall prognosis.

A systematic review of economic evaluation in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVES

The economic evaluation (EE) of healthcare interventions has become a necessity. However, high quality needs to be ensured in order to achieve validated results and help making informed decisions. Thus, the objective of the present study was to systematically identify and review published pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma-related EEs and to assess their quality.

METHODS

Systematic literature research was conducted in PubMed and Cochrane to identify published EEs between 2000 and 2015. The quality of each selected EE was assessed by two independent reviewers, using the Drummond's checklist.

RESULTS

Our systematic review was based on 32 EEs and showed a wide variety of methodological approaches, including different perspectives, time horizon, and cost effectiveness analyses. Nearly two-thirds of EEs are full EEs (n = 21), and about one-third of EEs had a Drummond score ≥7, synonymous with 'high quality'. Close to 50% of full EEs had a Drummond score ≥7, whereas all of partial EEs had a Drummond score <7 (n = 11).

CONCLUSIONS

Over the past 15 years, a lot of interest has been evinced over the EE of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and its direct impact on therapeutic advances in PDAC. To provide a framework for health care decision-making, to facilitate transferability and to lend credibility to health EEs, their quality must be improved. For the last 4 years, a tendency towards a quality improvement of these studies has been observed, probably coupled with a context of rational decision-making in health care, a better and wider spread of recommendations and thus, medical practitioners' full endorsement.

Pancreatic cancer: Are "liquid biopsies" ready for prime-time?

Pancreatic cancer is a disease that carries a poor prognosis. Accurate tissue diagnosis is required. Tumours contain a high content of stromal tissue and therefore biopsies may be inconclusive. Circulating tumour cells (CTCs) have been investigated as a potential “liquid biopsy” in several malignancies and have proven to be of prognostic value in breast, prostate and colorectal cancers. They have been detected in patients with localised and metastatic pancreatic cancer with sensitivities ranging from 38%-100% using a variety of platforms. Circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) has also been detected in pancreas cancer with a sensitivity ranging from 26%-100% in studies across different platforms and using different genetic markers. However, there is no clear consensus on which platform is the most effective for detection, nor which genetic markers are the most useful to use. Potential roles of liquid biopsies include diagnosis, screening, guiding therapies and prognosis. The presence of CTCs or ctDNA has been shown to be of prognostic value both at diagnosis and after treatment in patients with pancreatic cancer. However, more prospective studies are required before this promising technology is ready for adoption into routine clinical practice.

Role of endoscopic ultrasound in the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) with or without fine needle aspiration has become the main technique for evaluating pancreatobiliary disorders and has proved to have a higher diagnostic yield than positron emission tomography, computed tomography (CT) and transabdominal ultrasound for recognising early pancreatic tumors. As a diagnostic modality for pancreatic cancer, EUS has proved rates higher than 90%, especially for lesions less than 2-3 cm in size in which it reaches a sensitivity rate of 99% vs 55% for CT. Besides, EUS has a very high negative predictive value and thus EUS can reliably exclude pancreatic cancer. The complication rate of EUS is as low as 1.1%-3.0%. New technical developments such as elastography and the use of contrast agents have recently been applied to EUS, improving its diagnostic capability. EUS has been found to be superior to the recent multidetector CT for T staging with less risk of overstaying in comparison to both CT and magnetic resonance imaging, so that patients are not being ruled out of a potentially beneficial resection. The accuracy for N staging with EUS is 64%-82%. In unresectable cancers, EUS also plays a therapeutic role by means of treating oncological pain through celiac plexus block, biliary drainage in obstructive jaundice in patients where endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is not affordable and aiding radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Borderline resectable pancreatic cancer: Definitions and management

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States. While surgical resection remains the only curative option, more than 80% of patients present with unresectable disease. Unfortunately, even among those who undergo resection, the reported median survival is 15-23 mo, with a 5-year survival of approximately 20%. Disappointingly, over the past several decades, despite improvements in diagnostic imaging, surgical technique and chemotherapeutic options, only modest improvements in survival have been realized. Nevertheless, it remains clear that surgical resection is a prerequisite for achieving long-term survival and cure. There is now emerging consensus that a subgroup of patients, previously considered poor candidates for resection because of the relationship of their primary tumor to surrounding vasculature, may benefit from resection, particularly when preceded by neoadjuvant therapy. This stage of disease, termed borderline resectable pancreatic cancer, has become of increasing interest and is now the focus of a multi-institutional clinical trial. Here we outline the history, progress, current treatment recommendations, and future directions for research in borderline resectable pancreatic cancer.

When to puncture, when not to puncture: Pancreatic masses

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has evolved to become a crucial tool for the evaluation of pancreatic diseases, among them solid pancreatic lesions. However, its ability to determine whether a lesion is malignant or not is difficult to establish based only in the endosonographic image. EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) allows obtaining a cytological and/or histological sample from pancreatic lesions, with a high overall accuracy and low complication rates. Although the clinical usefulness of EUS-FNA for pancreatic diseases is widely accepted, the indications for tissue diagnosis of pancreatic lesions suspected to be malignant is still controversial. This review highlights the diagnostic accuracy and complications of EUS-FNA, focusing on its current indications.

Comparison of ERCP, EUS, and ERCP combined with EUS in diagnosing pancreatic neoplasms: a systematic review and meta-analysis

In the current study, we performed a systematic review of literature pertaining to the diagnostic value of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS), and combined ERCP plus EUS to pancreatic cancer. We searched MEDLINE, OVID, and the Cochrane Library for studies evaluating diagnostic validity of ERCP, EUS, and ERCP plus EUS between January 1989 and May 2014. We obtained pooled estimates of sensitivity, specificity, and summary receiver operating characteristic curves (SROC). A total of 10 studies that included 669 patients who fulfilled all of the inclusion criteria were considered for inclusion in the analysis. The pooled sensitivities of EUS, ERCP, and EUS plus ERCP were 76.7, 57.9, and 79.9 %, respectively. The pooled specificities were 91.7, 90.6, and 94.2 %, respectively. The *Q index estimates were 0.828, 0.862, and 0.896, respectively. The *Q indices for EUS and EUS plus ERCP were significantly higher compared with ERCP (P = 0.010 and 0.008, respectively). Our meta-analysis showed that ERCP plus EUS was associated with a high diagnostic value for the detection of pancreatic neoplasms compared with ERCP and EUS alone.

Pancreatic fine-needle aspiration cytology in patients < 35-years of age: a retrospective review of 174 cases spanning a 17-year period

Pancreatic lesions in young patients are relatively rare and, to our knowledge, the clinical value of pancreatic fine needle aspiration (FNA) in patients < 35 years of age has not been previously established by any other large retrospective studies. All pancreatic endoscopic ultrasound-guided FNA (EUS-FNA) cases performed on patients < 35 years of age were identified for a 17-year period (1994-2010). All FNAs and all available correlating surgical pathology reports were reviewed. There were a total of 174 cases of pancreatic FNA performed on 109 females and 65 males under the age of 35 (range: 8-34, mean: 27 years). The FNA diagnoses included 37 malignant, 114 negative, nine atypia/suspicious, and 14 cases that were nondiagnostic. Of the 37 malignant FNA cases, the diagnoses included 18 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNeT), 11 solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPN), five adenocarcinomas and three metastatic neoplasms. Histologic follow-up was available in 22 of the 37 malignant cases diagnosed by FNA, and the diagnosis was confirmed in 21 cases. One pancreatoblastoma was misclassified as SPN on EUS-FNA. False negative diagnoses were noted in three cases of low-grade mucinous cystic neoplasm and one case of PanNeT. The most common type of neoplasms diagnosed by EUS-FNA in patients < 35-year old is PanNeT, followed by SPN with both tumors accounting for 75% of all the neoplasms encountered in this age group. The sensitivity and specificity for positive cytology in EUS-FNA of the pancreas to identify malignancy and mucinous neoplasms were 90% and 100%, respectively. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2014;42:297-301. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Role of repeated endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration for inconclusive initial cytology result

For tissue diagnosis of suspected pancreatic cancer, endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is the procedure of choice with high safety and accuracy profiles. However, about 10% of cytologic findings of EUS-FNA are inconclusive. In that situation, careful observation, surgical exploration, or alternative diagnostic tools such as bile duct brushing with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography or computed tomography-guided biopsy can be considered. However, some concerns and/or risks of these options render repeat EUS-FNA a reasonable choice. Repeated EUS-FNA may impose substantial clinical impact with low risk.

Pancreatic Cancer: Current Options for Diagnosis, Staging and Therapeutic Management

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer is characterized by frequently delayed diagnosis and aggressive tumor growth which hampers most of the current treatment modalities. This review aims to summarize the available evidence about the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of resectable and non-resectable pancreatic cancer therapy.

SUMMARY

Embedded in the concept of multimodal therapy, surgery plays the central role in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. With advantageous tumor characteristics and complete tumor resection as the most relevant positive prognostic factors, the detection of premalignant or early invasive lesions combined with safe and oncologic adequate surgery is the major therapeutic aim. Most pancreatic adenocarcinomas are locally advanced or metastatic when diagnosed and need to be treated by the combination of surgery and (radio)chemotherapy or by palliative chemotherapy.

Single-session endosonography and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for biliopancreatic diseases is feasible, effective and cost beneficial

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) are often required in patients with pancreaticobiliary disorders.

AIMS

To assess the clinical impact and costs savings of a single session EUS-ERCP.

METHODS

Patient and intervention data from April 2009 to March 2012 were prospectively recruited and retrospectively analyzed from a database at a tertiary hospital. Indications, diagnostic yield, procedure details, complications and costs were evaluated.

RESULTS

Fifty-five scheduled combined procedures were done in 53 patients. The accuracy of EUS-fine needle aspiration for malignancy was 90%. The main clinical indication was a malignant obstructing lesion (66%). The ERCP cannulation was successful in 67%, and in 11/15 failed ERCP (73%), drainage was completed thanks to an EUS-guided biliary drainage: 6 transmurals, 5 rendezvous. Eight patients (14%) had related complications: bacteremia (n = 3), pancreatitis (n = 2), bleeding (n = 2) and perforation (n = 1). The mean duration was 65 ± 22.2 min. The mean estimated cost for a single session was €3437, and €4095 for two separate sessions. The estimated cost savings using a single-session strategy was €658 per patient, representing a total savings of €36,189.

CONCLUSION

Combined EUS and ERCP is safe, technically feasible and cost beneficial. Furthermore, in failed ERCP cases, the endoscopic biliary drainage can be completed with EUS-guided biliary access in the same procedure.

Cost-effectiveness of modern radiotherapy techniques in locally advanced pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Radiotherapy may improve the outcome of patients with pancreatic cancer but at an increased cost. In this study, the authors evaluated the cost-effectiveness of modern radiotherapy techniques in the treatment of locally advanced pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

A Markov decision-analytic model was constructed to compare the cost-effectiveness of 4 treatment regimens: gemcitabine alone, gemcitabine plus conventional radiotherapy, gemcitabine plus intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT); and gemcitabine with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). Patients transitioned between the following 5 health states: stable disease, local progression, distant failure, local and distant failure, and death. Health utility tolls were assessed for radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatments and for radiation toxicity.

RESULTS

SBRT increased life expectancy by 0.20 quality-adjusted life years (QALY) at an increased cost of $13,700 compared with gemcitabine alone (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio [ICER] = $69,500 per QALY). SBRT was more effective and less costly than conventional radiotherapy and IMRT. An analysis that excluded SBRT demonstrated that conventional radiotherapy had an ICER of $126,800 per QALY compared with gemcitabine alone, and IMRT had an ICER of $1,584,100 per QALY compared with conventional radiotherapy. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the probability of cost-effectiveness at a willingness to pay of $50,000 per QALY was 78% for gemcitabine alone, 21% for SBRT, 1.4% for conventional radiotherapy, and 0.01% for IMRT. At a willingness to pay of $200,000 per QALY, the probability of cost-effectiveness was 73% for SBRT, 20% for conventional radiotherapy, 7% for gemcitabine alone, and 0.7% for IMRT.

CONCLUSIONS

The current results indicated that IMRT in locally advanced pancreatic cancer exceeds what society considers cost-effective. In contrast, combining gemcitabine with SBRT increased clinical effectiveness beyond that of gemcitabine alone at a cost potentially acceptable by today's standards.

Role of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) for diagnosis of solid pancreatic masses

Since it was developed in 1992, endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) has been widely used and has been adapted for gastrointestinal and perigastrointestinal lesions. A medical literature review to evaluate the role of EUS-FNA for diagnosis of solid pancreatic masses showed a 78-95% sensitivity, 75-100% specificity, 98-100% positive predictive value, 46-80% negative predictive value and a 78-95% accuracy. The reported complication rates of EUS-FNA for pancreatic solid masses were 0-2%, although the criteria for complications varied among the studies. Because of its high diagnostic yield and low complication rate, EUS-FNA is cost-effective and widely applicable for the diagnosis of solid pancreatic masses, and is the best initial and the preferred secondary method compared with other biopsy techniques, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography-guided biopsy, computed tomography/ultrasound-FNA and surgery. Although EUS-FNA is 'a nearly perfected procedure,' controversy remains, such as the most suitable diameter of the needle, the appropriate number of needle passes and the necessity of on-site cytopathological evaluation. Recently investigators reported that using molecular analysis of EUS-FNA samples can achieve a higher diagnostic efficacy. Further research is encouraged to optimize the EUS-FNA procedure to reach its maximum diagnostic yield for solid pancreatic masses.

Contrast enhanced endoscopic ultrasound: More than just a fancy Doppler

Contrast enhanced endoscopic ultrasound (CEUS) is a new modality that takes advantage of vascular structure and blood flow to distinguish different clinical entities. Contrast agents are microbubbles that oscillate when exposed to ultrasonographic waves resulting in characteristic acoustic signals that are then converted to colour images. This permits exquisite imaging of macro- and microvasculature, providing information to help delineate malignant from non-malignant processes. The use of CEUS may significantly increase the sensitivity and specificity over conventional endoscopic ultrasound. Currently available contrast agents are safe, with infrequent adverse effects. This review summarizes the theory and technique behind CEUS and the current and future clinical applications.

EUS and survival in patients with pancreatic cancer: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

There is no direct evidence that EUS improves patient outcome.

OBJECTIVE

To study the association of undergoing EUS with survival in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

DESIGN

Population-based study.

PATIENTS

Persons aged 65 years and older with a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer who were captured in the linked Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results-Medicare database between 1994 and 2002 were identified.

INTERVENTIONS

Demographic, cancer-specific, and EUS procedural information was extracted, and survival curves were compared for patients who underwent EUS in the peridiagnostic period (1 month before the diagnosis to 3 months after the date of diagnosis: group I) with those who had not undergone EUS (group II).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Relative hazard ratios for survival.

RESULTS

A total of 8616 patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma were identified. Only 610 (7.1%) patients underwent EUS evaluation. In patients with locoregional cancer, the median survival (interquartile range) in group I and II patients was 10 (5-17) and 6 (2-12) months, respectively, P < .0001. There were more patients with early-stage disease in group I than group II (69.3% vs 36.2%, P < .001). Curative-intent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy were also performed more frequently in the patients in group I. Undergoing EUS, adjusted for age, race, sex, tumor stage, curative-intent surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and comorbidity score, was an independent predictor of improved survival (relative hazard, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.63-0.79).

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS evaluation is independently associated with improved outcome in patients with locoregional pancreatic cancer, possibly because of detection of earlier cancers and improved stage-appropriate management including more selective performance of curative-intent surgery.

Endoscopic ultrasonography and idiopathic acute pancreatitis

Idiopathic acute pancreatitis is a diagnostic challenge for gastroenterologists. The possibility of finding a cause for pancreatitis usually relies on how far the diagnostic study is taken. Endoscopic explorations such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic ultrasonography can help to determine the cause of pancreatitis. Furthermore, microscopic bile examination and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography can also be helpful in the work up of these patients. In this article an approximation to the diagnostic approach to patients with idiopathic acute pancreatitis is made, taking into account the reported evidence with which to choose between the different available explorations.

Downstream hospital charges generated from endoscopic ultrasound procedures are greater than those from colonoscopies

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Endoscopic ultrasound is a clinically valuable endoscopic platform, although a potential barrier to its widespread use is the modest reimbursement to the hospital, compared with that of standard endoscopy. However, the downstream procedures generated by endoscopic ultrasound findings might offset its modest procedural reimbursement for a hospital or health care system. We compared the number of hospital procedures that resulted from endoscopic ultrasound findings with those from colonoscopy findings and also compared the downstream hospital charges generated by endoscopic ultrasounds with those from colonoscopies.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed data from 920 consecutive endoscopic ultrasounds and 920 consecutive colonoscopies performed at University Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio to determine the downstream procedures generated within 18 months of the index procedure. Total hospital charges were determined for the index procedures, as well as all downstream surgeries, endoscopic procedures, and radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and interventional radiology procedures.

RESULTS

Endoscopic ultrasounds led to a greater number of downstream procedures than colonoscopies (198 vs 34). Hospital charges for downstream procedures that arose from endoscopic ultrasounds were 2.63-fold greater than those of colonoscopies ($4,068,115 vs $1,546,291). Hospital charges that resulted from the 920 index endoscopic ultrasounds were 1.34-fold greater than those of the index colonoscopies ($3,194,715 vs $2,381,745). Thus, the total hospital charges (index procedures plus downstream procedures) that arose from endoscopic ultrasounds were 1.85-fold greater than those of colonoscopies ($7,262,830 vs $3,928,036).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic ultrasounds generate greater downstream hospital charges than colonoscopies. These downstream charges attenuate the higher procedure-related charges of colonoscopy for a hospital.

Cost minimization analysis comparing diagnostic strategies in unexplained pancreatitis

OBJECTIVES

Both endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) are commonly performed in the evaluation of idiopathic pancreatitis. However, comparative trials of these modalities are lacking, and thus the ideal endoscopic diagnostic strategy to evaluate idiopathic pancreatitis remains unknown.

METHODS

A decision analysis model of patients with 2 attacks of idiopathic pancreatitis with gallbladder in situ was constructed using TreeAge software. We analyzed cost and overall diagnostic ability of 3 strategies, namely, EUS, ERCP with manometry and bile aspiration, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

RESULTS

Using the base case analysis, initial EUS was the preferred initial modality for the diagnosis. The expected cost for initial EUS was $4469 compared with $4615 for ERCP and $6268 for laparoscopic cholecystectomy. For cholecystectomy to be the preferred strategy, the total cost would need to be less than $1314, well below any realistic cost estimate. If the prevalence of microlithiasis/sludge was greater than 80%, then cholecystectomy would be preferred, whereas ERCP would be preferred with a prevalence of less than 41%.

CONCLUSIONS

This cost minimization study identifies EUS as the least costly initial test for the diagnostic evaluation of patients with idiopathic pancreatitis with gallbladder in situ.

Preoperative tissue diagnosis for tumours of the pancreas

BACKGROUND

Preoperative biopsy of pancreatic lesions suspected of malignancy is controversial.

METHODS

A systematic Medline literature search was carried out. Diagnostic studies reporting quantitative preoperative pancreatic biopsy data were evaluated.

RESULTS

The analysis included 53 studies, mostly of a retrospective nature. Despite acceptable rates for sensitivity and specificity, the negative predictive value of percutaneous and endoscopic ultrasonography-guided biopsies was 60-70 per cent. Biopsy results were considered to be essential for directing non-surgical therapy in advanced disease. However, they were of limited value in planning the treatment of resectable solid or cystic tumours, or focal lesions in the setting of chronic pancreatitis.

CONCLUSIONS

Biopsy of suspected pancreatic malignancies with systemic spread or local irresectability is indicated for planning palliative or neoadjuvant therapy. Preoperative biopsy of potentially resectable pancreatic tumours is not generally advisable, as malignancy cannot be ruled out with adequate reliability.

Endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration of solid pancreatic lesions: Performance and outcomes

BACKGROUND AND AIM

We report our single-centre experience with endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) of solid pancreatic lesions with regard to clinical utility, diagnostic accuracy and safety.

METHODS

We prospectively reviewed data on 100 consecutive EUS-FNA procedures performed in 93 patients (54 men, mean age 60.6 +/- 12.9 years) for evaluation of solid pancreatic lesions. Final diagnosis was based on a composite standard: histologic evidence at surgery, or non-equivocal malignant cytology on FNA and follow-up. The operating characteristics of EUS-FNA were determined.

RESULTS

The location of the lesions was pancreatic head in 73% of cases, the body in 20% and the tail in 7%. Mean lesion size was 35.1 +/- 12.9 mm. The final diagnosis revealed malignancy in 87 cases, including adenocarcinomas (80.5%), neuroendocrine tumours (11.5%), lymphomas (3.4%) and other types (4.6%). The FNA findings were: 82% interpreted as malignant cytology, 1% as suspicious for neoplasia, 1% as atypical, 7% as benign process and 9% as non-diagnostic. No false-positive results were observed. There was a false-negative rate of 5%. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy were 94.3%, 100%, 100%, 72.2% and 95%, respectively. In 23 (88.5%) of 26 aspirated lymph nodes malignancy was found. Minor complications occurred in two patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our experience confirms that EUS-FNA in patients with suspected solid pancreatic lesions is safe and has a high diagnostic accuracy. This technique should be considered the preferred test when a cytological diagnosis of a pancreatic mass lesion is required.

Cervical esophageal perforations at the time of endoscopic ultrasound: a prospective evaluation of frequency, outcomes, and patient management

OBJECTIVES

With the exception of one retrospective survey, there are currently no prospectively published data about the frequency of cervical esophageal perforation at the time of endoscopic ultrasound (CEP-EUS). We prospectively investigated the frequency of CEP-EUS and the outcomes and management of patients sustaining CEP-EUS.

METHODS

All patients that underwent upper EUS by a single experienced endosonographer over a 7-year period were enrolled. All indications and immediate complications encountered, the baseline demographics, indication of the procedures, surgical interventions, length of hospital stay, and the final outcomes of the patients were prospectively recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 5,225 EUS procedures were performed. Lower gastrointestinal tract EUS procedures (n=331) were excluded from the analysis, and thus 4,894 upper EUSs constitute this study. The mean age of the patients was 59.7 years (s.d. 14.3 years); 54% patients were men and 79% were white. Indications for EUS included pancreaticobiliary (58%), esophageal (14%), mediastinal (14%), gastric (9%), celiac blocks (1%), and other (4%). Of 4,894 patients, 3 (0.06%, exact 95% confidence interval: 0.01-0.18) suffered CEP-EUS. The curvilinear echoendoscope was used in all three patients. All patients were octogenarians and women. All perforations were suspected at the time of intubation. Esophagogram confirmed contained perforation in all patients. All patients were immediately admitted and underwent surgical repair with a neck incision and recovered completely. The length of hospital stay was 6, 11, and 23 days respectively. All patients resumed swallowing without complications. One patient died from progressive pancreatic cancer 6 months after Whipple's procedure. The two other patients remained alive and well 12 and 22 months after the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

CEP-EUS is rare but a potentially devastating event for the patient and the treating physician. Although rare, the incidence is 2- to 3-fold higher than what has been reported in the survey literature. Early recognition and treatment is crucial for prompt intervention and complete recovery from CEP-EUS. These data can be used by endosonographers to counsel their patients about frequency, management, and outcomes of CEP-EUS.

Value of repeat endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration for suspected pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is a safe and accurate technique for diagnosing pancreatic cancer. The value of repeat EUS-FNA in patients with high clinical suspicion for pancreatic cancer after an inconclusive index study is unknown. Our aims were to determine the yield and success of repeat EUS-FNA and the reasons for failure of initial EUS-FNA.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data in a tertiary University based referral center for pancreatico-biliary disorders. All patients who underwent more then one EUS-FNA for evaluation of suspected pancreatic cancer over a five and a half year period were included in this analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 547 procedures performed on 517 patients, 24 (4.6%) patients underwent 51 repeat EUS-FNA procedures. Initial EUS-FNA was atypical/suspicious in 10 (41.6%), benign in 10 (41.6%), malignant in two (8.3%), and failed/indeterminate in two (8.3%) patients. Eight of 10 (80%) patients with atypical/suspicious findings at initial EUS-FNA were diagnosed with malignancy on repeat EUS-FNA. Of the 10 patients with benign findings at initial EUS-FNA, repeat study diagnosed two (20%) with malignancy and the rest were confirmed benign on long-term follow up (average 530 days, SD 369 days). Of the two patients with indeterminate findings at initial EUS-FNA, repeat study diagnosed one patient with malignant disease and the other with benign disease that was confirmed by long-term follow up. Of the two patients diagnosed with neoplastic disease at initial EUS-FNA, repeat EUS-FNA with immunostains downgraded both to chronic pancreatitis. Repeat EUS-FNA facilitated determination of the true status of disease in 20 of 24 patients (accuracy 84%). Suspected reasons for failed initial EUS-FNA were: coexisting pancreatitis (n = 10; 42%), technical difficulty due to scope positioning in uncinate lesion/sedation failure (n = 4; 16.7%), difficult cytology (partly cystic, extensive necrosis, well-differentiated adenocarcinoma) (n = 4; 16.7%), presence of ascites or collaterals (n = 3; 12.5%), pathologist's interobserver variation (n = 2; 8.33%), and unknown reason in one patient.

CONCLUSION

Repeat EUS-FNA is warranted in patients with high clinical suspicion for pancreatic cancer despite indeterminate or negative findings at initial EUS-FNA.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in the characterization of benign focal liver lesions: activity-based cost analysis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to perform a cost analysis of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) in the study of benign focal liver lesions (BFLL) with indeterminate appearance on ultrasonography (US).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A decision model of patients with suspected BFLL on baseline US who subsequently underwent CEUS between 2002 and 2005 was constructed. We analysed the cost effectiveness of CEUS, considering whether or not computed tomography (CT) was necessary for the diagnosis. There were 398 patients with 213 angiomas, 41 focal nodular hyperplasias (FNH) and 154 pseudolesions (focal fatty sparing, focal fatty areas). Each patient underwent CEUS, and 98 of them were also studied by CT. All lesions were followed up.

RESULTS

The cost of a single CEUS examination was 101.51 euros, and that of a single CT scan was 211.48 euros. For diagnosis of haemangiomas, we saved 1,406.97 euros in 2002, 5,315.22 euros in 2003, 10,317.78 euros in 2004 and 9,536.13 euros in 2005. For diagnosis of focal nodular hyperplasias, we saved 781.65 euros in 2003, 781.65 euros in 2004 and 1,406.97 euros in 2005. For diagnosis of pseudolesions, we saved 2,813.94 euros in 2002, 5,158.89 euros in 2003, 5,158.89 euros in 2004 and 4,220.91 euros in 2005. In the period 2002-2005, the introduction of CEUS allowed us to save a total of 47,055.33 euros in the diagnosis of benign focal hepatic liver lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

This cost analysis shows that CEUS is the least expensive second-line modality after baseline US for the diagnosis of BFLL.

The impact of endoscopic ultrasonography on the management of suspected pancreatic cancer--a comprehensive longitudinal continuous evaluation

OBJECTIVES

Between 1997 and 2001, a single-center chart review demonstrated significant impact of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) in evaluating suspected pancreatic cancer (PCA). Repeating and comparing this review with that from 2001 to 2004 was performed to determine whether increased use of EUS results in more patients being accurately chosen for curative versus palliative procedures, and for surgical versus nonsurgical oncotherapy.

METHODS

The complete systematic review was made up of electronic files from the gastroenterology, oncology, and pathology departments of patients presenting with suspected PCA. Results were compared with those obtained in 1997-2001.

RESULTS

From 2001 to 2004, 72 patients had PCA. Seven tumor types were identified. Forty-seven percent (34/72) of patients with suspected PCA were preoperatively staged by EUS; 24% (17/72) of all patients underwent surgery. Comparatively, from 1997 to 2001, only 32% (20/62) of patients were evaluated by EUS (P = 0.056) and 45% (28/62) of all patients underwent surgery (P < 0.01). The EUS detected a tumor in 32 of 34 cases. The EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology identified PCA in 14 of 18 cases. F-18-deoxyglucose-positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging were not used. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was performed in 29% (21/72) of patients, with 15 stents inserted.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased EUS use for diagnosing and staging PCA resulted in fewer patients undergoing futile surgery. The EUS plays a pivotal role in the management of patients with PCA.

Endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) for pancreatic lesions: effectiveness in clinical practice

BACKGROUND

Diagnosis of pancreatic masses is often difficult. Endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration has been proposed as the best single-step strategy.

AIMS

To prospectively evaluate feasibility, effectiveness and safety of endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration of pancreatic masses in a consecutive study of unselected patients.

METHODS

Two hundred ninety-three patients were enrolled in two referral Hospitals in Northern Italy. All patients were referred either due to the presence of imaging test abnormalities (suspected or evident masses, or features indirectly suggesting the presence of a mass) or due to clinical or biochemical findings suggesting pancreatic cancer in the absence of positive imaging. All patients underwent linear array endoscopic ultrasound and, when indicated, fine needle aspiration. All procedures were recorded prospectively. The final diagnosis was established at the end of follow-up or when the patients underwent surgery or died.

RESULTS

Fine needle aspiration was indicated in 246 of 293 cases (84%), considered technically feasible in 232 of 246 cases (94%) and gave adequate samples for histopathological diagnosis in 204 of 232 cases (88%). Endoscopic ultrasound sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were 79, 60 and 72%, respectively; the corresponding figures for endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration were 80, 86 and 82%. There was good agreement with final diagnosis for endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration (kappa 0.673, 95%CI 0.592-0.753), greater than that for endoscopic ultrasound alone (kappa 0.515, 95%CI 0.425-0.605). There was one case of intracystic haemorrhage and one case of transient hyperthermia (0.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic ultrasound-fine needle aspiration of pancreatic masses seems to be feasible, effective and safe in this consecutive study of patients.

A prospective evaluation of an algorithm incorporating routine preoperative endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration in suspected pancreatic cancer

BACKGROUND

Whether tissue diagnosis is required in the preoperative evaluation of patients with suspected pancreatic cancer remains controversial. We prospectively evaluated the accuracy, safety, and potential impact on surgical intervention of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) in the preoperative evaluation of suspected pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

All patients who underwent EUS-FNA at our institution (n = 547) over a 4.5-year period were enrolled. Patients underwent surgical exploration and resection based on their comorbidity status, evidence of resectability based on spiral computed tomography (CT) and EUS imaging reviewed in a multidisciplinary approach.

RESULTS

Of 547 patients enrolled (median age 64 years, 60% male), 49% presented with obstructive jaundice. The operating characteristics of EUS-FNA of solid pancreatic masses were: sensitivity 95% (95% CI: 93.2-95.4), specificity 92% (95% CI: 86.6-95.7), positive predictive value 98% (95% CI: 97-99), negative predictive value 80% (95% CI: 74.9-82.7). The overall accuracy of EUS-FNA was 94.1% (95% CI: 92.0-94). Of the 414 true positive patients by EUS-FNA, 138 (33%) were explored. Of patients deemed operable by combined imaging, 42% had surgical resection. Eighty-two percent of true positive patients were ultimately found inoperable and received palliative therapy or chemotherapy. Of the 94 patients with true negative cytology based on extended follow-up, only 7 (7%) underwent surgical resection. Of those with false negative diagnoses (n = 24), 5 patients underwent exploration/resection based on detection of mass lesions by EUS. The remaining patients had unresectable disease. Mild self-limiting pancreatitis occurred in (0.91%).

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-FNA is a safe and highly accurate method for tissue diagnosis in suspected pancreatic cancer. This approach allows for preoperative counseling of patients, minimizing surgeon's operative time in cases of unresectable disease, and avoids surgical biopsies in the majority of patients with inoperable disease. In addition, it allows for conservative management of patients with benign biopsies. We still, however, recommend exploration of patients with clinical scenario suspicious for pancreatic cancer, a mass found on EUS or CT, but inconclusive or negative cytology.

Cumulative sum procedure in evaluation of EUS-guided FNA cytology: the learning curve and diagnostic performance beyond sensitivity and specificity

BACKGROUND

Using cumulative sum (CUSUM) chart, we address two questions: (i) Over time, how will an EUS-FNA (endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration) service maintain an acceptable non-diagnostic rate defined as technical failures, unsatisfactory specimens and atypical and suspicious diagnoses? (ii) Over time, how will EUS-FNA maintain acceptable diagnostic errors (false-positives plus false-negative diagnosis)?

METHODS

The study included all consecutive patients who underwent EUS-FNA at our institution from July 2000 to October 2003 and were followed up until December 2004. Using a simple spread sheet, we designed CUSUM charts and used them to track trends and assess performance at a preset acceptable rate of 10% and a preset unacceptable rate of 15% for non-diagnostic rate and diagnostic errors. We assessed all cases collectively and then in groups defined by site, size and cytopathologist.

RESULTS

Of 876 patients undergoing EUS-FNA, 83 (9.5%) had non-diagnostic results: 43 (51%) of these diagnoses were 'atypical', 27(33%) were 'suspicious for malignancy', eight (10%) were 'insufficient material for diagnosis' and five (6%) were 'technical failure'. In 585 cases with adequate follow up, there were 26 (6.3%) diagnostic errors: three (0.5%) were false positive and 23 (3.1) were false negative. The overall CUSUM charts for both non-diagnostic rate and for diagnostic error rate start with a small period of learning then cross to a significantly acceptable level at case numbers 121 and 97 respectively. Our diagnostic performance was better in lymph nodes than in the pancreas and other organs and was not significantly different for lesions <or=25 mm compared with lesion >25 mm in diameter. Performance was better for pathologists with prior experience than for pathologists without experience.

CONCLUSION

In the current climate of proficiency testing, error tracking and competence evaluation, there is a great potential for the use of CUSUM charts to assess procedure failure and error tracking in quality control programs, particularly when a new procedure such as EUS-FNA is introduced in the laboratory. Additionally, the method can be used to assess trainee competency and to track the proficiency of practicing cytologists.

ROLE OF ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND IN STAGING UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL CANCERS

The key clinical management points in this article are that (i) endoscopic ultrasound is the most accurate imaging method for local staging of oesophageal, gastric and pancreatic neoplasms; (ii) addition of fine-needle aspiration biopsy to the technique is safe and well tolerated and increases diagnostic accuracy for nodal staging purposes; and (iii) endoscopic ultrasound +/- fine-needle aspiration has the capacity to influence significantly, the management of patients with malignancies of the upper gastrointestinal tract, particularly with respect to selection for surgery. The learning objectives were that at the end of this paper the reader should be able to (i) understand the usefulness and limitations of various imaging methods in the staging of upper gastrointestinal cancers; and (ii) incorporate the various imaging methods, particularly endoscopic ultrasound, into management algorithms for oesophageal cancer, gastric cancer, mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphomas, gastrointestinal stromal tumours, pancreatic cystic lesions and pancreatic cancer.

Endoscopic ultrasonography in the diagnosis and management of cancer

Since its development and introduction to clinical practice, endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has progressed rapidly from being a purely imaging modality with limited use in the detection of small pancreatic cancers to one that can provide a tissue diagnosis by fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and deliver therapy. EUS has now firmly established a place as the investigation of choice in the diagnosis, locoregional staging and management of a wide range of gastrointestinal cancers. With the increasing use of FNA, the accuracy of EUS has substantially improved and may become a stand-alone investigation in some situations. However, it is recommended that a combination of information obtained from other imaging modalities and EUS is needed to maximize the accuracy, in particular to complete staging beyond locoregional stage. In addition to well-established indications, newer applications of EUS are emerging and are no longer limited to the gastrointestinal system. In lung cancer, EUS combined with endobronchial ultrasonography is emerging as an accurate, minimally invasive, nonsurgical alternative to staging of the mediastinum. Furthermore, the ability of EUS to acquire tissue safely and conveniently results in a potential role of the molecular diagnostics to enhance the performance of EUS-guided FNA. Besides a diagnostic role of EUS, there continues to be technological advances in the field of interventional EUS, with many potential applications under investigation. This review focuses on the current and future roles of EUS in the diagnosis and management of cancers.

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy of solid pancreatic masses: comparison of CT and endoscopic sonography guidance

OBJECTIVE

Imaging-guided biopsies of solid pancreatic masses are performed with either CT or endoscopic sonography at our institution. We compared test characteristics of fine-needle aspiration biopsies guided using CT with those guided using endoscopic sonography and secondarily evaluated for an effect of mass size.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Of 70 solid pancreatic masses, 43 (mean size, 4.4 cm; range, 1.5-10.3 cm) underwent fine-needle (20- to 22-gauge) aspiration biopsy with CT guidance and 27 (mean size, 2.3 cm; range, 1.0-5.0 cm) underwent fine-needle (22-gauge) aspiration biopsy with endoscopic sonography guidance. The diagnostic rate, sensitivity, and negative predictive value (NPV) for each technique were compared using Fisher's exact test before and after stratifying masses by size as small (< or = 3 cm) or large (> 3 cm).

RESULTS

The overall diagnostic rate, sensitivity, and NPV of fine-needle aspiration biopsies guided using CT (97.7%, 94.9%, and 60%, respectively) were not significantly different from those guided using endoscopic sonography (88.9%, 85%, and 57.1%, respectively). Among small masses, the diagnostic rate and sensitivity for biopsies guided using CT (100% and 100%, respectively) were not significantly different from those for biopsies guided using endoscopic sonography (90.9% and 93.8%, respectively). Among large masses, the diagnostic rate and sensitivity (96.6% and 92.3%, respectively) for biopsies guided using CT were not significantly different from those for biopsies guided using endoscopic sonography (83.3% and 50%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

When biopsying solid pancreatic masses with fine needles, procedures guided with CT and those guided with endoscopic sonography have similar test characteristics regardless of mass size.

Optical coherence tomography compared with histology of the main pancreatic duct structure in normal and pathological conditions: an 'ex vivo study'

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Optical coherence tomography permits high-resolution imaging of tissue microstructures by a probe inserted into the main pancreatic duct through a standard ERCP catheter. The aim of this study was to compare optical coherence tomography images of the main pancreatic duct with histology and identify the optical coherence tomography pattern of the normal and pathological structure of the main pancreatic duct.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Multiple sections of neoplastic and non-neoplastic segments of 10 consecutive surgical pancreatic specimens obtained from patients with pancreatic head adenocarcinoma were investigated by optical coherence tomography scanning within 1h of resection. One hundred optical coherence tomography findings were then compared with the corresponding histopathological diagnoses.

RESULTS

Main pancreatic duct wall architecture appeared at optical coherence tomography investigation as a three-layer structure with a different back-scattered signal from each layer. Optical coherence tomography imaging was concordant with histology in 81.8% and 18.75% of sections with normal tissue and chronic inflammatory changes. The K statistic between the two procedures was equal to 0.059 for non-neoplastic main pancreatic duct wall appearance. In all neoplastic sections optical coherence tomography showed a subverted layer architecture with heterogeneous back-scattering of the signal and was concordant with histology.

CONCLUSIONS

Optical coherence tomography provided images of main pancreatic duct wall structure that were concordant with histology in 100% of cases in presence of neoplastic ductal changes and did not have false-positive or negative results. Optical coherence tomography images were also concordant with histology in about 80% of cases with normal main pancreatic duct structure; however, the differential diagnosis between normal tissue and chronic pancreatitis or dysplastic changes appeared very difficult.

Borderline resectable pancreatic cancer: definitions, management, and role of preoperative therapy

With recent advances in pancreatic imaging and surgical techniques, a distinct subset of pancreatic tumors is emerging that blurs the distinction between resectable and locally advanced disease: tumors of "borderline resectability." In our practice, patients with borderline-resectable pancreatic cancer include those whose tumors exhibit encasement of a short segment of the hepatic artery, without evidence of tumor extension to the celiac axis, that is amenable to resection and reconstruction; tumor abutment of the superior mesenteric artery involving <180 degrees of the circumference of the artery; or short-segment occlusion of the superior mesenteric vein, portal vein, or their confluence with a suitable option available for vascular reconstruction because the veins are normal above and below the area of tumor involvement. With currently available surgical techniques, patients with borderline-resectable pancreatic head cancer are at high risk for a margin-positive resection. Therefore, our approach to these patients is to use preoperative systemic therapy and local-regional chemoradiation to maximize the potential for an R0 resection and to avoid R2 resections. In our experience, patients with favorable responses to preoperative therapy (radiographical evidence of tumor regression and improvement in serum tumor marker levels) are the subset of patients who have the best chance for an R0 resection and a favorable long-term outcome.

Review of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology

This review, based on the Hennepin County Medical Center experience and review of the literature, vastly covers the up-to-date role of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) in evaluating tumorous lesions of the gastrointestinal tract and adjacent organs. Emphasis is given to the tumoral and nodal staging of esophageal, pulmonary, and pancreatic cancer. This review also discusses technical, pathological, and gastroenterologic aspects and the role of the pathologist and endosonographer in the evaluation of these lesions, as well as the corresponding FNA cytology and differential diagnosis.

Pancreatic cancer screening: identifying premalignant disease

Evaluation of: Canto MI, Goggins M, Yeo CJ et al.: Screening for pancreatic neoplasia in high-risk individuals: an EUS-based approach. Clin. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2(7), 606-621 (2004). Endoscopic ultrasound was utilized in the screening of individuals at high risk for pancreatic cancer. Patients with abnormal endoscopic ultrasound findings were further evaluated with fine-needle biopsy, endoscopic retrograde cholangipancreatography, and computerized tomography scanning. A total of 38 patients were enrolled in this prospective screening program. A total of seven patients were identified with suspicious neoplastic lesions and underwent pancreatic resection. No significant morbidity or mortality resulted from the screening tests or subsequent intervention including surgery. Surgical pathology revealed two neoplastic masses (invasive carcinoma and intraductal pancreatic mucinous neoplasm), three pancreatic intraepithelial neoplastic lesions, and two benign lesions for a diagnostic yield of 13.1% (five of 38). The patient with invasive carcinoma remains disease free over 5 years following surgery. The results of this study suggest a reasonable approach to detecting early neoplastic lesions in asymptomatic individuals. Such early intervention efforts hold much potential in reducing the mortality of this aggressive disease. Further studies are needed to confirm the suggested clinical benefit of screening and to answer questions related to specific screening protocols.

Nonoperative imaging techniques in suspected biliary tract obstruction

Evaluation of suspected biliary tract obstruction is a common clinical problem. Clinical data such as history, physical examination, and laboratory tests can accurately identify up to 90% of patients whose jaundice is caused by extrahepatic obstruction. However, complete assessment of extrahepatic obstruction often requires the use of various imaging modalities to confirm the presence, level, and cause of obstruction, and to aid in treatment plan. In the present summary, the literature on competing technologies including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), percutaneous transhepatic cholangiopancreatography (PTC), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS), magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), helical CT (hCT) and helical CT cholangiography (hCTC) with regards to diagnostic performance characteristics, technical success, safety, and cost-effectiveness is reviewed. Patients with obstructive jaundice secondary to choledocholithiasis or pancreaticobiliary malignancies are the primary focus of this review. Algorithms for the management of suspected obstructive jaundice are put forward based on current evidence. Published data suggest an increasing role for EUS and other noninvasive imaging techniques such as MRCP, and hCT following an initial transabdominal ultrasound in the assessment of patients with suspected biliary obstruction to select candidates for surgery or therapeutic ERCP. The management of patients with a suspected pancreaticobiliary condition ultimately is dependent on local expertise, availability, cost, and the multidisciplinary collaboration between radiologists, surgeons, and gastroenterologists.

Borderline resectable pancreatic cancer

Rigorous criteria to define "borderline resectable" pancreatic cancer are required for appropriate patient accrual into clinical trials that examine the utility of chemotherapy and/or chemoradiation that will be delivered prior to pancreatic resection for exocrine cancer. At our institution, tumor abutment of less than or equal to 180 degrees (< or = 50% of the vessel circumference) of the superior mesenteric artery, short segment abutment or encasement (> or = 50% of the vessel circumference) of the common hepatic artery (typically at the gastroduodenal artery origin), or segmental venous occlusion are used to categorize a pancreatic tumor as borderline resectable. These patients are at a high risk for margin positive resection with initial surgery; therefore, we favor a treatment schema that incorporates preoperative (neoadjuvant) therapy with systemic chemotherapy and chemoradiation. Patients whose tumors show radiographic stability or regression that are often accompanied by an improvement in serum tumor markers are candidates for pancreaticoduodenectomy. A prospective multicenter clinical trial with well-defined eligibility criteria may help decide the best overall treatment strategy for these patients. Vascular resection and reconstruction may be required in patients with borderline resectable tumors, and surgery should be performed at centers with expertise in such complex pancreatic resections.

New advances in pancreatic imaging

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Exciting new developments and applications of imaging techniques in pancreatic diseases have emerged. This review discusses these new advances and how they are improving our ability to diagnose malignancies and inflammatory lesions, to grade severity of pancreatitis, and to stage pancreatic cancer accurately.

RECENT FINDINGS

A new computed tomography severity index shows promise for grading the severity of acute pancreatitis. Magnetic resonance imaging is comparable with computed tomography in staging acute pancreatitis. Analysis of pancreatograms and textural changes of the parenchyma may prove helpful in diagnosing chronic pancreatitis. Contrast enhanced ultrasonography may prove to be a useful way to judge the degree of inflammation and fibrosis in autoimmune pancreatitis and to monitor response to steroid therapy. The debate over the best means of staging pancreatic cancer has focused on endoscopic ultrasound and computed tomography. Preliminary studies with contrast enhanced ultrasonography report improved diagnostic and staging capabilities with pancreatic cystic and solid neoplasms. Improvements in positron emission tomography/computed tomography scans may improve the detection of neuroendocrine tumors.

SUMMARY

These new advances will help refine the diagnosis and staging of pancreatic diseases.