Pancreatic disease in the elderly patient.

Pancreatic disease represents a significant health-care problem in elderly patients. Although the entire spectrum of benign and malignant disease of the pancreas can occur in elderly patients, acute gallstone pancreatitis and pancreatic carcinoma are by far the most common pancreatic disorders seen in this age group. Although the management of both of these conditions is no different in elderly patients, aggressive evaluation and therapy are essential for optimal results. Specifically, the evidence supports an aggressive attitude towards surgical intervention for patients with pancreatic cancer.