[Pancreatic cancer in 2025 : multidisciplinary management]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology

Context:

• Pancreatic cancer (PC) presents a significant challenge in Switzerland, with high mortality and limited survival rates.
• Late diagnosis, due to a lack of specific symptoms and biomarkers, hinders effective treatment for PC.
• Current survival rates for PC remain low, with a median survival of 6-8 months and a 5-year survival rate of approximately 15%.

Purpose:

• To summarize recent advancements in the multidisciplinary management of pancreatic cancer.
• To detail current diagnostic workup and therapeutic strategies for PC.
• To highlight the ongoing challenges in treating this aggressive malignancy.

Summary:

• This review covers the latest developments in diagnosing and treating pancreatic cancer.
• Diagnostic approaches include advanced imaging, endoscopic techniques, and pathology.
• Therapeutic options encompass minimally invasive surgery, radiotherapy, and systemic therapies, including molecularly guided treatments.

Impact:

• Improved understanding of PC management can lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment strategies.
• Multidisciplinary approaches are crucial for optimizing patient outcomes in pancreatic cancer care.
• Despite progress, pancreatic cancer continues to be a major unmet need in oncology research and clinical practice.