Updated: 12/12/06 08:21 AM

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We have now cared for 75 patients who have a strong family history of pancreatic cancer. Fifteen patients have undergone pancreatectomy because of abnormal findings at endoscopic ultrasound and ERCP and because they have evidence of precancer in a tissue sample of the pancreas. All of these patients had precancerous changes throughout the pancreas on histology. Most patients have done fairly well after surgery; all patients have developed diabetes that requires insulin injections and monitoring of blood glucose. Patients must also take enzyme tablets when they eat, so that their food is digested. None of the patients who underwent pancreatectomy, or has been followed using the surveillance program, has developed pancreatic cancer. An essential ingredient to a good patient outcome is a team approach to these patients, using experienced gastroenterologists, surgeons, and pathologists who have expertise and interest in pancreatic disease.






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