The Relationship Between Triceps Skinfold and Overall Survival of Pancreatic Cancer, Cholangiocarcinoma and Gallbladder Cancer

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore the relationship between triceps skinfold thickness and overall survival in patients with pancreatic cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, and gallbladder cancer. Cachexia, a condition of severe weight loss and muscle wasting, is common in pancreatic cancer and is linked to poorer survival, lower treatment tolerance, and reduced quality of life. While BMI is commonly used to assess body composition, it may not accurately reflect body fat, so this study focuses on skinfold thickness as a potentially better measure. Participants are newly diagnosed with pancreatic, bile duct, or gallbladder cancer and will have their triceps skinfold thickness measured using a skin thickness caliper on the right forearm. These measurements will be taken every three weeks as part of the study's observational approach. No experimental treatment is given; instead, the study monitors this body measurement alongside the patients' ongoing therapeutic management, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, or palliative care. Throughout the study, researchers will track overall survival for an average of two years. Participants will have regular skinfold thickness assessments every three weeks, and the study team will observe how these relate to survival outcomes. The study is conducted by Samsung Medical Center and does not involve any interventions beyond routine care and measurement. Participation involves follow-up visits for measurements and survival monitoring until study completion.

The Relationship Between Triceps Skinfold and Overall Survival of Pancreas, Bile Duct, Gallbladder Cancer