Studying Blood Markers to Predict Nerve Invasion in Pancreatic Cancer Patients Undergoing Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Pancreatic cancer is a serious disease with a poor prognosis and is a leading cause of cancer-related death. This research evaluates whether certain blood markers, specifically the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio NLR and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 CA 19.9, can predict the presence of perineural invasion, a key factor affecting prognosis in pancreatic cancer. The study also explores how neoadjuvant therapy might influence these markers. Participants in this observational study are patients diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma who undergo surgical removal of the tumor. Researchers collect blood samples before surgery to measure NLR and CA 19.9 levels and compare these with tissue analysis after surgery that confirms perineural invasion. The study examines the relationship between these blood markers and the microscopic spread of cancer along nerves. During the study, participants have blood tests prior to surgery and histopathological examination of the removed tumor after surgery. The main outcome measured is the presence of perineural invasion confirmed by tissue analysis. The study aims to improve preoperative risk assessment in pancreatic cancer to guide treatment decisions. Participants data related to blood markers and tissue findings will be analyzed to understand these potential predictors.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Ratio and CA 19.9 as Predictors of Perineural Invasion in Pancreatic Cancer