Medically reviewed by Mokenge Malafa, MD, Gastrointestinal Oncology Program
Moffitt Cancer Center's High-Risk Pancreatic Cancer Screening Clinic provides personalized risk assessment and surveillance for individuals who may have an increased likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer.
Routine pancreatic cancer screening is not recommended for the general population, making specialized evaluation important for identifying individuals who may benefit. Moffitt’s team reviews each person’s family history, genetic information, medical history and other relevant factors to determine whether pancreatic surveillance is appropriate.
The clinic is part of Moffitt's Pancreas Interception Center, which focuses on pancreatic cancer risk assessment, early detection and research.
Having one or more risk factors does not mean a person will develop pancreatic cancer. Eligibility for surveillance is determined through an individualized clinical assessment.
Inherited changes in certain genes may increase pancreatic cancer risk. These can include genes associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome and hereditary pancreatitis.
Genetic counseling can help patients understand their personal and family cancer history, determine whether genetic testing may be appropriate and interpret existing test results.
Before Your AppointmentThe clinic may request records related to your personal medical and cancer history, information about cancers in your family, previous genetic testing results, prior abdominal or pancreatic imaging, records related to pancreatitis or diabetes and a current medication list.
Your Initial EvaluationA specialist will review your personal and family medical history, genetic information, previous imaging and other risk factors. The team will discuss your estimated level of risk, whether surveillance is recommended, whether genetic counseling or testing may be helpful and which screening tests are appropriate.
Multispecialty ReviewWhen findings require additional evaluation, a patient’s case may be reviewed by experts in gastroenterology, pancreatic surgery, radiology, genetics, pathology, oncology and other disciplines. This collaboration helps determine whether continued surveillance, further testing or treatment should be considered.
Screening and SurveillancePancreatic surveillance may include MRI with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) and endoscopic ultrasound. The recommended tests and follow-up schedule depend on the patient’s risk factors, genetic history and previous findings. Some patients may be monitored annually, while others may require more frequent follow-up or additional diagnostic testing.
Ongoing Follow-UpPatients who qualify for continued surveillance receive a personalized plan outlining the recommended type and timing of follow-up testing. If a concerning change is identified, the team coordinates additional evaluation and connects the patient with the appropriate Moffitt experts.
People with a strong family history, an inherited genetic risk, chronic or hereditary pancreatitis or other qualifying clinical factors may benefit from an evaluation. A specialist determines whether surveillance is appropriate.
No. Increased risk does not mean pancreatic cancer is inevitable. The purpose of evaluation is to understand your individual risk and determine whether specialized monitoring may be beneficial.
Surveillance commonly involves MRI or MRCP and endoscopic ultrasound. The testing approach is personalized according to risk factors and previous findings.
The frequency depends on your risk level, genetic history, imaging findings and other clinical factors. Some patients may be monitored annually, while others may need more frequent follow-up.
Eligible patients may have opportunities to participate in clinical trials, registries or studies involving pancreatic cancer risk, early detection, imaging, biomarkers, genetics and prevention. Participation is voluntary.
The team of experts in the High-Risk Pancreatic Clinic collaborates to assess pancreatic cancer risk and provide early detection, diagnosis and treatment. The team includes experts in gastroenterology, radiology, pathology, genetics and genetic counseling, medical oncology, nutrition, wellness and supportive care.
Program
Gastrointestinal Surgical Oncology and Gastroenterology
Specialty
Gastroenterology
