Published online Feb 24, 2021. doi: 10.5306/wjco.v12.i2.54
Peer-review started: December 25, 2020
First decision: January 11, 2021
Revised: January 12, 2021
Accepted: February 4, 2021
Article in press: February 4, 2021
Published online: February 24, 2021
Processing time: 59 Days and 9.5 Hours
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma remains one of the deadliest malignancies affecting the older population. We are experiencing a paradigm shift in the treatment of pancreatic cancer in the era of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Utilizing neoadjuvant treatment and further conducting a safe surgery while protecting patients in a controlled environment can improve oncological outcomes. On the other hand, an optimal oncologic procedure performed in a hazardous setting could shorten patient survival if recovery is complicated by COVID-19 infection. We believe that oncological treatment protocols must adapt to this new health threat, and pancreatic cancer is not unique in this regard. Although survival may not be as optimistic as most other malignancies, as caregivers and researchers, we are committed to innovating and reshaping the treatment algorithms to minimize morbidity and maximize survival as caregivers and researchers.
Core Tip: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma remains one of the deadliest malignancies affecting the older population; Oncological treatment protocols must adapt to the coronavirus disease 2019 era; Neoadjuvant treatment and further conducting a safe surgery while protecting patients in a controlled environment can improve oncological outcomes.