Imaging examination methods for pancreatic cancer

The main imaging methods for pancreatic cancer include B-ultrasound, CT, MRI, X-ray, etc. The specific contents are as follows:

B-ultrasound

B-ultrasound is the preferred examination method for pancreatic cancer patients. It can detect the dilatation of the biliary system and pancreatic duct at an early stage. It is possible to detect tumors with a diameter of more than 1 cm, and it is more likely to detect tumors with a diameter of 2 cm. Patients in the high-risk age group with upper abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite can be screened with B-ultrasound. If suspicious but uncertain, further CT examination can be performed.

CT

The diagnostic accuracy of CT is higher than that of B-ultrasound, and the diagnostic accuracy rate can reach more than 80%. It can detect pancreaticobiliary tract dilatation and tumors in any part of the pancreas with a diameter of more than 1 cm. It can also detect retroperitoneal lymph node metastasis, intrahepatic metastasis, and observe the presence or absence of retroperitoneal cancer infiltration, which helps to determine whether the tumor can be removed before surgery.

MRI

MRI can detect pancreatic tumors larger than 2 cm. MRA combined with three-dimensional imaging reconstruction methods can provide clear images and can replace angiography. Magnetic resonance pancreatocholangiopancreatography can partially replace invasive endoscopic retrograde pancreatocholangiopancreatography and help detect pancreatic head cancer.

X-ray examination

Barium meal duodenography in patients with pancreatic cancer can reveal images of infiltration and extension of the duodenum by pancreatic head cancer. Selective celiac artery angiography has a certain diagnostic value for pancreatic cancer. The sensitivity and accuracy of barium meal duodenography in diagnosing pancreatic cancer can reach 95%.