Immunological perspectives on pancreatic cancer and jaundice

The development of techniques that permit detailed evaluation of functional aspects of the immune system has prompted a reassessment of our understanding of many tumor systems. Conspicuous in this area is the examination of malignancies associated with ineffective therapeutic strategies and poor survival patterns. Pancreatic ductal cancer is a prime example of such a system. This disease is further complicated by the frequent association with obstructive jaundice--a condition known to influence host immune responses. This review will attempt to discuss the current knowledge concerning alterations of the cellular immune system in patients suffering from pancreatic cancer. It will also contain a review of increasing attempts to achieve earlier diagnosis through the development of more efficient tumor markers. Finally, a brief resume will be presented of the relationship between the immune system and the presence of jaundice.