Pancreatic calcification and pancreatic carcinoma: the relationship reconsidered
Schultz, R.E.; Finkler, N.J.
Mount Sinai Journal of Medicine new York 47(6): 622-626
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0027-2507 PMID: 6972002 Document Number: 163981
The presence or absence of pancreatic calcification was investigated in 181 patients with pancreatic carcinoma, and in 70 patients with chronic pancreatitis. No calcifications were evident in any of these cases of pancreatic carcinoma. Among cases of chronic pancreatitis, calcifications were found in 18%, with a history of moderate to heavy alcohol consumption recorded in all cases of lithiasis. Six (6) cases of pancreatic carcinoma (5%) had a prior history of pancreatitis, none of which had pancreatic stones. This data does not support the idea that chronic pancreatic lithiasis can cause pancreatic carcinoma. Insufficient follow-up data of cases of chronic pancreatitis precludes a definitive statement in this regard. Etiologic variables and associated medical conditions of this series of patients are also reviewed. The data shows high incidences of diabetes and hysterectomy among patients with pancreatic carcinoma. Further studies are needed to ascertain the importance of diabetes and gynecologic disease to the development of pancreatic carcinoma.