CA had no preferential localization. Four other patients had a percutaneous biopsy and 8 were observed. In conclusion, most cystic pancreatic tumors are found in women. Malignant lesions are found predominately in the head of the pancreas. Modern imaging technics combined with clinical presentation are reliable in obtaining a diagnosis.
Resection remains the treatment of choice.
No significant correlation was found between tumor stage or size and the presence of diabetes or of a reduced glucose tolerance. In group 2 patients, a significant increase in fasting serum glucose levels was found during follow-up. In conclusion, the reduced glucose tolerance or frank diabetes mellitus, which frequently occurs during the onset of pancreatic cancer, does not seem to be related to tumor stage or size. Curative resection ameliorates glucose intolerance, while tumor persistence can enhance serum glucose levels. For the prediction of gastrointestinal side effect, assay of the 5-FU concentration in the portal blood seemed to be useful.