Comparing the clinical impact of pancreatic cyst surveillance programs: A trial of the ECOG-ACRIN cancer research group (EA2185)

Background: The optimal surveillance strategy for pancreatic cysts, which occur in up to 20% of the adult population, is ill defined. The risk of malignant degeneration of these cysts is low, however the morbidity and mortality associated with pancreatic cancer are high. Two clinical surveillance guidelines are in regular use. Both the Fukuoka and American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) guidelines rely on radiographic and endoscopic imaging. They differ primarily in their recommended frequencies of interval surveillance imaging. While evidence driven clinical guidelines should promote higher quality care, competing guidelines on the same topic may provide discordant recommendations and potential reduction in the quality and/or value of care. Objectives: The primary objective is to compare the clinical effectiveness of the two surveillance guidelines to identify patients most likely to benefit from pancreatic resection. Secondary objectives include comparison of resource utilization, patient reported outcomes, incidental findings are other clinical outcomes. Methods: 4606 asymptomatic patients with newly identified pancreatic cysts >= 1 cm in diameter will be randomized 1:1 to high intensity (Fukuoka) or low intensity (AGA) surveillance. All participants will be followed prospectively for 5 years. Conclusion: Differing guidelines confuse providers, patients and policymakers. This large, prospective, randomized trial will compare the clinical effectiveness and resource allocation requirements of two guidelines addressing a common clinical entity.