Screening and Diagnostic Strategies for Sarcomatoid Carcinoma of the Pancreas.

BACKGROUND: Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the pancreas (SCP) is an exceptionally rare variant of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. A detailed evaluation of its clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, and imaging characteristics may contribute to earlier detection and intervention, thereby improving survival outcomes and quality of life. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical presentation, laboratory investigations, and imaging findings of a patient with pathologically confirmed SCP. In addition, relevant literature was analyzed to summarize strategies for early screening and diagnosis. RESULTS: A 78-year-old female presented with persistent dull epigastric pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Laboratory evaluation revealed elevated CA19-9 levels. Imaging demonstrated a mass in the pancreatic body and tail. Dynamic contrast-enhanced CT showed moderate heterogeneous enhancement in the arterial phase with progressive enhancement during the portal venous phase. Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI revealed rim enhancement. CONCLUSIONS: The integration of serum CA19-9 measurement with characteristic imaging features may facilitate the early identification of SCP.