Diagnosis and staging of pancreatic cancer: Role of gastroenterologist: Endoscopic ultrasound (eus), eus-guided biopsy

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) currently plays a major role in the detection, diagnosis, and staging of pancreatic cancer. EUS-guided sampling has emerged as the preferred method for making a definitive cytologic or pathologic diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Multiple variables may potentially influence diagnostic yield. Awareness of these variables and the ability to modify techniques when indicated are important to optimize outcomes. Molecular analysis of EUS-acquired tissue continues to emerge as a viable adjunct to enhance diagnosis, predict response to treatment, and facilitate personalization of cancer therapy. Advances in EUS technology hold promise for continued improvement and expanded applications of this procedure. EUS is being increasingly utilized in a number of novel ways to facilitate treatment and manage complications related to pancreas cancer. In the following chapter we summarize the current role of EUS in the detection, diagnosis, staging, and management of pancreatic cancer.