EUS Imaging in the Diagnosis of Pancreatic Masses

Abstract

In the last decade, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has become a standard tool for an evaluation of both solid and cystic pancreatic lesions (PLs). Pathological diagnosis of the lesions can be established by EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA). However, given the fact that EUS-FNA may not be possible in certain situations, the endosonographer’s work on EUS imaging is important. A high level of knowledge and expertise to analyze EUS imaging is mandatory for all endosonographers for an accurate diagnosis of PLs. This chapter will provide those typical images with essential information about common PLs. In addition, it will also describe the latest information about the most recent technology, namely, EUS-guided needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (EUS-nCLE) for the diagnosis of PLs. After reading the chapter, readers are expected to be more confident in making an accurate diagnosis of PLs based on EUS imaging.