Journal of the Pancreas 

About: Journal of the Pancreas is an academic journal. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Pancreatitis & Pancreas. It has an ISSN identifier of 1590-8577. Over the lifetime, 1972 publications have been published receiving 25849 citations.

Survival following curative resection for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. A systematic review of the literature.

Abstract: Context Patients with resectable pancreatic cancer comprise a small subgroup of the overall population with the disease from around 15 to 20%, with nearly all patients dying from their disease within 7 years of surgery. In the light of such bleak statistics, data regarding what factors may influence outcome, following attempted curative resection is essential in order to optimise the treatment options for patients. Methods This review analysed all Englishlanguage publications using PubMed and Web of Science databases for studies detailing outcomes following resection for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma from 1980 to the present day. Main outcome measures The data examined from papers were post-operative mortalityrates, median survival, yearly survival rates and other factors which may have influenced long-term survival; such as patientdemographics, operative details and tumour characteristics (such as example tumour size, lymph node metastases and tumour differentiation). Results There has been significant improvement in post-operative mortality over the last decades with a modest improvement in long-term survival. With the exception of post-operative blood transfusion, tumour characteristics remain the only significant features influencing survival after pancreatic cancer surgery. Favourable prognostic factors include tumour size less than 2 cm, negative resection margin, lymph node negative tumours, well-differentiated tumours and absence of perineural or blood vessel invasion. Conclusion In light of these data, it could be reasoned that tumour size, on cross-sectional imaging, might be employed as means of selecting the most appropriate candidates for surgery, in cases where the risks of resection are high.

Alcohol as a Risk Factor for Pancreatitis. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract: Context Epidemiologic studies have suggested an association between alcohol consumption and pancreatitis, although the exact dose-response relationship is unknown. It also remains uncertain whether a threshold effect exists. Objective To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiologic studies on the association between alcohol consumption and the risk of pancreatitis. Methods We searched Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, ETOH and AIM. Studies were included if they reported quantifiable information on risk and related confidence intervals with respect to at least three different levels of alcohol intake. Results Six studies, including 146,517 individuals with 1,671 cases of pancreatitis, met the inclusion criteria. We found a monotonic and approximately exponential dose-response relationship between average volume of alcohol consumption and pancreatitis. However, in a categorical analysis the lower drinking categories were not significantly elevated, with an apparent threshold of 4 drinks daily. Conclusions As the available evidence also indicates that the relationship is biologically plausible, these results support the existence of a link between alcohol consumption and the risk of pancreatitis.

Microvascular complications in cystic fibrosis-related diabetes mellitus: a case report.

Abstract: Context The prevalence of cystic fibrosis-related diabetes mellitus is increasing and is associated with increased survival from cystic fibrosis. Case Report This study describes a case of the premature onset of disabling and widespread microvascular complications resulting from cystic fibrosis-related diabetes mellitus. Previously asymptomatic retinopathy was diagnosed on recognition of diabetic nephropathy. Conclusions The treatment of pulmonary exacerbations has become more complex due to the nephrotoxic potential of intravenous aminoglycoside drugs which are frequently used to control chronic Pseudomonas infection in cystic fibrosis. Image: Renal biopsy: glomeruli with a global increase in the mesangial matrix.

Chronic pancreatitis. A prospective nationwide study of 1,086 subjects from India.

Abstract: Context Chronic pancreatitis is common in India. However, its risk factors are not clear. There is sparse data on the current prevalence of tropical pancreatitis in India. Objective To undertake a prospective nationwide study of the risk factors and clinical profile of chronic pancreatitis.

Vascular complications of pancreatitis

Abstract: Most cases of pancreatitis are mild and selflimited. On the other hand, approximately one quarter of patients with pancreatitis may develop vascular complications. Vascular complications in pancreatitis are well recognized. Their exact incidence is not known. The most common complications are haemorrhage into a pseudocyst, erosions of the upper gastrointestinal arteries, thromboses of the portal venous system, formation of varices or pseudoaneurysms and rupture of a pseudoaneurysm. Pancreatitis in combination with vascular complications is dangerous and potentially lethal. The survival of patients with pancreatitis and vascular complications depends on the early diagnosis of these complications. This article focuses on the aetiology, presentation, recent developments in diagnosis and management of such complications.