Multimodality treatment of locally advanced pancreatic cancer.
BACKGROUND
The prognosis of locally advanced pancreatic cancer is poor (median survival 3-5 months). In view of the localized character of this disease several groups have explored the value of combined modality treatment. The conditions are that a good local treatment and an effective systemic treatment are available.


METHODS
The results of irradiation and of chemotherapy in advanced disease are reviewed.


RESULTS
An overview of combined modality treatment has been given.


CONCLUSIONS
Results of combined modality treatment are superior to irradiation alone or to symptomatic treatment.
Wagener
D J
DJ
Division of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Nijmegen St Radboud, The Netherlands.
de Mulder
P H
PH
Wils
J A
JA
D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D006801:Humans; D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000628:therapy*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic