Molecular diagnostics of hepatobiliary and pancreatic neoplasias

Virchows Arch. 2024 Feb;484(2):263-272. doi: 10.1007/s00428-024-03744-5. Epub 2024 Mar 1.

Abstract

Neoplasias of the hepatopancreatobiliary tract are growing in numbers, have the poorest prognosis of all major cancer entities, and thus represent a rising clinical problem. Their molecular diagnostic has dramatically improved, contributing to tumor subtyping, definition of malignancy, and uncovering cases with hereditary predisposition. Most of all, predictive molecular testing allows to identify cases amenable to treatment with the rising number of approved targeted drugs, immune-oncological treatment, and clinical trials. In this review, the current state of molecular testing and its contribution to clinical decision-making are outlined.

Keywords: Cancer; Hepatobiliary; Molecular diagnostics; Pancreas; Personalized Medicine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Medical Oncology
  • Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Pathology, Molecular*