Computed tomography and fine-needle aspiration cytology for preoperative evaluation of cystic tumours of the pancreas

Abstract

Cystic neoplasms of the pancreas are rare. They may present as a mucinous (malignant or potentially malignant) tumour or as benign serous cystadenoma. Accurate preoperative diagnosis is therefore essential, as an asymptomatic serous tumour may safely be followed clinically for years, whereas mucinous tumours require aggressive surgery. Thirteen patients with cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas were reviewed and how best to improve the rate of preoperative diagnosis was considered. Fine-needle aspiration cytology and computed tomography enable accurate preoperative distinction between mucinous and serous cystic tumours of the pancreas.

Management of cystic tumours of the pancreas

“…All patients in the present series were women, which correlates well with the literature. A clinical syndrome associated with cystic neoplasms has been described 1,2 and consists of abdominal pain and symptoms related to pancreatic dysfunction such as diarrhoea, weight loss and diabetes mellitus 1,2 . All patients in this series presented with abdominal pain.…”

“…With the increased availability of imaging techniques they are being diagnosed more often. They are typically found in middle‐aged women 1−3 . Mucinous and serous cystic tumours account for between 75% and 90% of reported cases 4,5 .…”

True Solitary Pancreatic Cyst in an Adult: Report of a Case

“…[30][31][32] A correct preoperative diagnosis of pancreatic cysts often requires an accurate histological examination of the neoformation.…”

Lymphoepithelial Cyst of the Pancreas

“…Hence, fine-needle aspiration has been recommended to establish a diagnosis in asymptomatic elderly patients and in patients who are not good candidates for surgery because of debility or comorbid medical problems. [19] Treatment Several treatment options are suggested in the literature. Most authorities recommend surgical excision of LECPs since these lesions are very rare and can easily mimic cystic neoplasms of the pancreas [6].…”