Pancreatic Tumorigenesis: Precursors, Genetic Risk Factors and Screening

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly fatal malignancy with a unique tumor microenvironment that limits the effectiveness of chemotherapeutics. PC develops from genetic mutations, cellular injury, and environmental exposure, progressing from precursor lesions to malignant neoplasms. This silent disease presents non-specific symptoms, including abdominal pain and painless jaundice. Serological and imaging evaluation aids in the diagnosis, with imaging modality selection dependent on cholestasis presence. The meticulous evaluation of vascular involvement and distant metastasis determines the tumor’s resectability. Neoadjuvant therapy improves patient selection and limits micrometastases, while chemotherapy is the preferred treatment for unresectable cases. Early detection and personalized treatment are essential in improving PC’s clinical outcomes.