The role of imaging in the clinical practice of radiation oncology for pancreatic cancer

Abdom Radiol (NY). 2018 Feb;43(2):393-403. doi: 10.1007/s00261-017-1373-3.

Abstract

Advances in technology have enabled the delivery of high doses of radiation therapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with low rates of toxicity. Although the role of radiation for pancreatic cancer continues to evolve, encouraging results with newer techniques indicate that radiation may benefit selected patient populations. Imaging has been central to the modern successes of radiation therapy for PDAC. Here, we review the role of diagnostic imaging, imaging-based planning, and image guidance in radiation oncology practice for PDAC.

Keywords: Image guidance; Pancreatic cancer; Radiotherapy; Stereotactic body radiation therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Adenocarcinoma / pathology
  • Adenocarcinoma / radiotherapy*
  • Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal / diagnostic imaging*
  • Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal / radiotherapy*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / pathology
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Radiation Oncology / methods*
  • Radiosurgery
  • Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted