Management of Cystic Neoplasms of the Pancreas

Abstract

The diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions is increasingly common. The majority of pancreatic cysts are now diagnosed incidentally on cross-sectional imaging. Lack of clear evidence-based guidelines and overall poor understanding of the natural history of pancreatic cysts contribute to complexity of managing patients with pancreatic cysts. Pancreatic cystic neoplasm types differ in their presentation, histologic features, imaging characteristics, and predisposition to develop invasive malignancy. The diagnostic strategies to determine cyst type and presence of malignancy—cross-sectional imaging, endoscopic ultrasonography, and analyses of pancreatic cyst fluid aspirates—have improved over time. However, accurate characterization of cysts remains challenging. Several large groups, including the American College of Radiology, the American Gastroenterological Association, the European Study Group on Cystic Tumours of the Pancreas, and the International Association of Pancreatology, have released cyst management guidelines or recommendations that have important differences. In this review, we provide an overview of the most common pancreatic cystic neoplasm, evaluate recent advancements in diagnostic techniques, and compare current management guidelines. This review contains 7 figures, 5 tables, and 77 references. Key Words: intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, management guidelines, multidisciplinary teams, mucinous cystic neoplasm, pancreatic cyst, pancreatic cystic neoplasm, serous cystadenoma, solid pseudopapillary neoplasm, surgical oncology