Pancreatic cancer (PC) presents substantial diagnostic challenges due to its aggressive nature and lack of early symptoms, leading to late detection and poor prognosis . According to recent cancer statistics, PC ranks as the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths globally, with increasing incidence, particularly in high-risk regions such as China. Factors such as a shortage of specific and reliable screening markers, along with a lower prevalence in the general population, make effective large-scale screening a formidable tasko assess advancements in diagnostic techniques, artificial intelligence integration, biomarker discoveries, and future prospects, highlighting the transformative potential of these approaches in detecting PC earlier and improving patient outcomes.
Advances in diagnostic technologies Significant strides have been made in PC imaging techniques, notably high-resolution CT, MRI with diffusion-weighted imaging, and endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS). EUS, particularly with contrast enhancements, enables detailed visualization of pancreatic lesions, enhancing sensitivity in detecting small abnormalities. However, there are limitations, such as the need for highly trained operators and lengthy wait times, which hinder broader application.
Emerging molecular imaging techniques, such as those using fibroblast activation protein (FAP) inhibitors for PET imaging, are promising in improving detection of even small lesions, potentially aiding in more precise staging and.
