The Clinical Significance of Pancreatic Steatosis in Pancreatic Cancer: A Hospital-Based Study

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest malignancies worldwide with a pressing need for early detection and intervention strategies. Emerging evidence has suggested a potential link between pancreas steatosis, characterized by excessive pancreatic fat accumulation, and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer development. This retrospective imaging study aims to elucidate the association between pancreatic steatosis and the subsequent development of pancreatic cancer. In the study, we aimed to determine the characteristics of pancreatic cancer with pancreatic steatosis. Methods: During the period of January 2022 to December 2022, we conducted a retrospective study, collecting 101 newly diagnosed pancreas cancer cases from the available image datasets. A comprehensive database of retrospective abdominal imaging studies, comprising computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), was established from a diverse patient population and subsequently analyzed. Inclusion criteria encompassed patients having available baseline imaging data, allowing for the assessment of pancreatic fat content. Pancreatic fat content was quantified using validated radiological techniques, while demographic, clinical, and histopathological data were all collected. The clinical data and patient characteristics were collected from medical records and analyzed. Results: Preliminary analysis revealed a significant correlation between elevated pancreatic fat content and an increased incidence of subsequent pancreatic cancer. Moreover, subgroup analysis based on age, gender, and comorbidities provided valuable insight into potential risk factors associated with this progression. Additionally, the study identified novel radiological markers that may serve as early indicators of pancreatic cancer development in individuals with pancreatic steatosis. Conclusions: In the imaging study, approximately 30% (30/101) of pancreatic cancer patients presented with pancreatic steatosis. Chronic pancreatitis emerged as the primary factor contributing to pancreatic steatosis in these patients. Importantly, pancreatic steatosis did not significantly impact the prognosis of pancreatic cancer. Follow-up data revealed no significant differences in survival duration between patients with or without pancreatic steatosis. Additionally, no association was found between pancreatic steatosis and hepatic steatosis.