Pancreaticobiliary Malignancies: Past, Present, and Future

Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.—Marie Curie This issue of Seminars in Radiation Oncology is dedicated to providing oncologists with an updated review of the roles and controversies surrounding radiation therapy in duodenal, ampullary, gall bladder, bile duct, and pancreatic cancers. Multidisciplinary management of pancreaticobiliary malignancies is needed to decrease treatment-related toxicity and improve quality of life. Paired with innovations in diagnostic imaging, surgical techniques, systemic drug delivery, symptom management, and technological advances in the delivery of radiation therapy, such a multidisciplinary approach would likely translate into improved patient outcomes. Nonetheless, if major strides are expected, we must draw on lessons from the past to guide our clinical innovations for the future treatment of these challenging malignancies.
Source: Seminars in Radiation Oncology - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Source Type: research