Pancreatic Cancer: Multimodality treatment of locally advanced pancreatic cancer

Summary 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. Patients and 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.