Integrated Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography (PET-CT) in Patients With Pancreatic Cancer

Clinical Implication of Integrated PET-CT in the Patients With Pancreatic Cancer

In suspecting pancreatic cancer, dynamic phase pancreatic CT is the most effective tool in diagnosis and staging. In addition, magnetic resolution image, endoscopic ultrasonography, endoscopic retrograde pancreatography, angiography can be performed.

After introduction of functional image, PET has been suggested in the role of diagnosis and staging of pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, recently fused images of PET and CT were available.

In this study, the researchers evaluate the role of integrated PET-CT in patients with pancreatic cancer and analysis the cost-effectiveness of the integrated PET-CT.

Compared to dynamic phase pancreatic CT, integrated PET-CT will be evaluated for sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of diagnosing and staging pancreatic cancer while the gold standard for pancratic cancer is operative specimen. If the operation can't be performed, EUS-FNA of the pancreatic mass or lymph node and additional imaging modality will be preferred to laparotomy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pancreatic mass suspicious of pancreatic cancer
• No comorbidity, expected life expectancy less than 6 months
• Consent this study in letter

Exclusion Criteria:

• Refuse diagnostic and staging work-up