Spreading Screening Success!
Secretin-stimulated endoscopic ultrasounds are booming with uses in gastroenterology, as highlighted in the GI & Hep News article Endoscopic ultrasound pushes beyond biopsy in diagnostics. From chronic pancreatitis to early detection cancer screenings, improved diagnostic methods are helping doctors make treatment decisions earlier and earlier. For chronic pancreatitis, studies have indicated that “Secretin-stimulated EUS accurately predicted response to stent therapy in 81% of patients.”2 While these results are promising, further research is needed to make this the standard of care.
Other bright developments on the horizon come from results of studies on early pancreatic cancer detection. Now, early detection of pancreatic cancer has never been easier or safer. Doctors can now collect liquid directly from the duodenum, dubbed a “liquid biopsy,” without having to cannulate the pancreatic duct. Dr. Wallace and his colleagues write, “Secretin-stimulated collection of pancreatic juice from the duodenum without cannulation of the pancreatic duct avoids the increased risk of pancreatitis associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and direct aspiration of pancreatic juice from within the pancreatic duct.”2 This means more high-risk patients who would otherwise be advised against an ERCP due to the likelihood of complications may now be eligible for improved screening, as deemed appropriate by their healthcare providers. When the sample is analyzed for both CA 19-9 and a methylated DNA marker panel (C13orf18, FER1L4, and BMP3), as opposed to just CA 19-9, sensitivity and specificity were 89% and 88% respectively.1
As you can see, Secretin stimulation continues to unlock the mysteries of the pancreas. ChiRhoClin, Inc. remains dedicated to supporting cutting-edge research and diagnostic options for patients and practitioners alike.
If you would like to learn more, visit www.chirhoclin.com or call 301-476-8388.
Bibliography
Brunk, D. (2026, February 17). Endoscopic ultrasound pushes beyond biopsy in diagnostics. GI & Hep News. Retrieved from https://news.gastro.org/issues/2026/february/endoscopic-ultrasound-pushes-beyond-biopsy-in-diagnostics/
Wallace, M. B., Majumder, S., Storz, P., & van Hooft, J. E. (2025, January 7). Emerging Diagnostic Indications for Endoscopic Ultrasound. Gastroenterology. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2025.07.028