Pancreatic cancer imaging group

Since 2000 we participate in a surveillance program (in close cooperation with the department of gastroenterology in the LUMC), for the early detection of pancreatic cancer in high-risk individuals especially with a familial germline mutation (CDKN2A-p16-Leiden Mutation Carriers).

We optimise MRI techniques especially focused on imaging of the pancreas with high resolution and little movement artifacts.

We evaluate the added value of intra-operative ultrasound to determine vascular involvement and resectability of pancreatic cancer after pre-operative chemo- and radiotherapy.

Currently, prognosis of patients with detected pancreatic cancer is still very poor (overall 5 year survival 8%). In high risk individuals with germline mutations, we found that surveillance with annual MRI resulted in significantly improved prognosis – overall 5 yr survival 35%. In the general population screening for pancreatic cancer with MRI is not feasible. However, new methods for detection of tumor-specific vapors (Volatile Organic Compounds) in blood serum and urine are being developed that may select individuals in who subsequent screening and characterizing of pancreatic lesions with MRI may become cost-effective.