Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer because it is often diagnosed too late. One of the most concerning realities is that pancreatic tumors are frequently missed or misinterpreted on standard abdominal CT scans. Recent studies show that early-stage pancreatic cancers are often visible in hindsight on imaging studies performed months before diagnosis. But without the right imaging protocols, or interpretation by the right specialized radiologist, those critical early signs may be overlooked.

How Often Is Pancreatic Cancer Missed?

A 2015 study published in The Pancreas journal reviewed over 100 patients later diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and found that 27% had visible tumors on earlier CT scans that were not recognized at the time of interpretation. Another review published in the American Journal of Roentgenology (AJR) concluded that up to 40% of pancreatic tumors were retrospectively visible on prior imaging but were initially missed, due to subtle or non-specific features and lack of pancreas-specific imaging protocols.

These statistics reflect serious diagnostic delays. The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer remains below 12%, mostly due to late detection.

Why Are Pancreatic Cancers Missed on CT Scans?

Several factors contribute to missed diagnoses:

Inadequate Imaging Protocols

Most routine abdominal CTs are not optimized for evaluating the pancreas. A proper pancreas protocol CT requires thin-slice imaging and contrast-enhanced scans during both the arterial and portal venous phases. Without these specifications, small or subtle tumors can go unnoticed.

Subtle or Atypical Tumor Appearance

Early-stage pancreatic cancers may:

• Appear as small, lesions that are a similar density to a normal pancreas
  Cause only minor contour deformities
  Be mistaken for benign findings such as cysts or mild inflammation

3. Non-specialist Interpretation

General radiologists may not identify nuanced secondary signs such as pancreatic duct cut-off, glandular atrophy, or subtle surrounding fat changes. These signs are more likely to be recognized by a radiologist specializing in body imaging, which focuses on imaging of the abdomen.

Getting a Second Opinion from a Subspecialist Radiologist

A second opinion from a body imaging subspecialist, a radiologist with advanced training in abdominal imaging, can significantly increase the chances of detecting early pancreatic cancer. These experts are trained to:

• Recognize subtle and early signs of malignancy
  Recommend further imaging or follow-up when appropriate
  Avoid false reassurance from a misinterpreted "normal" scan
  Improve diagnostic accuracy that could lead to earlier intervention and better outcomes

Real-World Impact

A second opinion offers more than just reassurance, it could be life-saving. At MDView, we connect patients with board-certified radiologists who specialize in body imaging. If you’ve had a CT scan for unexplained symptoms like abdominal pain, weight loss, or digestive issues and were told everything looks normal, it may be worth seeking an expert second opinion.

Get the Clarity You Deserve

If you're unsure about your abdominal CT results or feel your symptoms don't match your radiology report, a second opinion from a body imaging specialist may provide critical insights. Upload your scan today to your MDView account and connect with a subspecialty focused radiologist to have your exam reviewed and receive an expert second opinion fast! Don't have your exam? No problem! MDView can get your imaging exam directly from the facility on your behalf at no added cost. Just click the Have MDView Get My Exam button on the homepage of your MDView account and let us take care of the rest!

Peace of mind is just a few clicks away! Get started today at https://app.mdview.com.