Work

Pancreatic Steatosis as a Risk Factor for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Pathogenesis and Clinical Implications

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: Pancreatic steatosis is defined as the ectopic accumulation of fat in the pancreas. While historically considered a benign incidental imaging finding, it is now recognized as a significant and potentially reversible risk factor for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) independent of obesity. Although its epidemiology is not well characterized, meta-analysis data suggest an approximately 30% prevalence, with individual studies reporting even higher rates among patients with obesity and/or metabolic syndrome. Concurrently, PDAC incidence is rising and is projected to soon become the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Given the critical importance of early PDAC detection and intervention for improving survival, it is particularly timely to explore the associations between pancreatic steatosis and PDAC. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the pathogenesis and clinical associations between pancreatic steatosis and PDAC and to discuss future perspectives within the context of current PDAC surveillance practices.

Source: Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology

DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000832

Authors: Zoi Papalamprakopoulou, Prasenjit Dey, Rachel Frascati, Christos Fountzilas

Institutions: Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, University at Buffalo, State University of New York

Language: English

Topic: Pancreatic and Hepatic Oncology Research

Subfield: Oncology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,800