Cyst Fluid Analysis Research Articles

Imaging of pancreatic serous cystadenoma and common imitators.

Pancreatic cystic neoplasms are lesions comprised of cystic components that show different biological behaviors, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, imaging features, and malignant potential and management. Benign cystic neoplasms include serous cystic neoplasms (SCAs). Other pancreatic cystic lesions have malignant potential, such as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms and mucinous cystic neoplasms. SCAs can be divided into microcystic (classic appearance), honeycomb, oligocystic/macrocystic, and solid patterns based on imaging appearance. They are usually solitary but may be multiple in von Hippel-Lindau disease, which may depict disseminated involvement. The variable appearances of SCAs can mimic other types of pancreatic cystic lesions, and cross-sectional imaging plays an important role in their differential diagnosis. Endoscopic ultrasonography has helped in improving diagnostic accuracy of pancreatic cystic lesions by guiding tissue sampling (biopsy) or cyst fluid analysis. Immunohistochemistry and newer techniques such as radiomics have shown improved performance for preoperatively discriminating SCAs and their mimickers.

Endoscopic Ultrasound in the Management of Intraductal Papillary and Mucinous Pancreatic Tumors: What is the Specificity?

Background: Pancreatic cysts, often symptomless, are more frequently detected with advanced imaging. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) are the most common type, categorized into main-duct (MD-IPMN), branch-duct (BD-IPMN), and mixed forms, each with different risks of malignancy. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) aids precise diagnosis through detailed imaging and cyst fluid analysis, guiding personalized treatment and monitoring based on the patient's risk of malignancy. Method: This study was conducted at the EFD-HGE Unit of Ibn Sina Hospital in Rabat, from September 2015 to May 2024, were included all patients diagnosed with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) on imaging (MRI or CT scan). Epidemiological, clinical, biological and endoscopic ultrasound data were collected from EUS registries. Results: Out of 696 biliopancreatic EUS conducted, 44 patients were selected, representing a prevalence of 6.32%. The average age was 60.2 years (range 29-82 years), with a notable female predominance (M: 16, F: 28) (Sex Ratio = 0.57). The circumstances of discovery were incidental in 18 cases (40.9%), epigastric pain in 14 cases (31.8%), acute pancreatitis in 5 cases (11.4%), jaundice in 3 cases (6.8%), and abdominal pain in 4 cases (9.1%).biologically, cholestasis was observed in 10 cases (22.7%), elevated cytolytic enzymes in 5 cases (11.3%), and elevated Ca19-9 in 4 cases (9.1%).Endoscopic ultrasound provided details on tumor location, number, and size: predominantly in the pancreatic head in 21 cases (47.7%), body in 12 cases (27.2%), tail in 7 cases (15.9%), and multifocal in 4 cases (9.1%), with an average tumor size of 22.5 mm (range 19-57 mm). In 84.1% of cases (n = 37), there was communication solely with the main pancreatic duct (MPD), while in 15.9% (n = 7), there was communication with both the main pancreatic duct and secondary ducts, with Wirsung duct dilation in 15 cases (34%). Fine needle biopsy was performed in 23 cases (52%). ............

Urethral duplication with a large cystic dorsal penile mass in a newborn: a case report

BackgroundUrethral duplication is a rare urogenital anomaly with varying anatomical orientations leading to diverse clinical presentations. We present a case of urethral duplication in a neonate featuring a large dorsal cystic mass on the penis, an unusual presentation.Case presentationA term male neonate with a prenatally diagnosed 10 × 10 cm genitourinary cystic mass was delivered via caesarean section. Examination revealed a large cystic mass extending dorsally from the pubic symphysis over a flattened, elongated penile shaft with a single urethral opening in the glans and undescended testes. A size 6-French feeding tube inserted into the urethra drained the bladder.Urethral communication with the cystic mass was confirmed via voiding cystourethrogram and cyst enlargement noted during voiding. Cyst fluid analysis indicated a urinary origin. Computed tomography and ultrasound were not diagnostic. Initial imaging revealed a dorsal cystic mass projecting from the pubic symphysis without bladder connection.Surgical intervention at 3 weeks revealed a Type IIA-2 urethral duplication, with a dorsal hypoplastic urethra communicating with the posterior urethra. Correction included resection of the dorsal urethra, cyst excision, and reconstruction of the penis with the orthotopic ventral urethra and bilateral orchidopexies.Satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes were observed at 2 and 8 months after surgery.ConclusionThis case highlights the significance of identifying unique urethral duplication presentations. The novel occurrence of Type IIA-2 urethral duplication terminating in a dorsal cystic mass underscores diagnostic complexity, surgical intricacies, and aesthetic considerations associated with such cases.

Pancreatic pseudocyst: The past, the present, and the future.

A pancreatic pseudocyst is defined as an encapsulated fluid collection with a well-defined inflammatory wall with minimal or no necrosis. The diagnosis cannot be made prior to 4 wk after the onset of pancreatitis. The clinical presentation is often nonspecific, with abdominal pain being the most common symptom. If a diagnosis is suspected, contrast-enhanced computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging are performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the characteristics of the pseudocyst. Endoscopic ultrasound with cyst fluid analysis can be performed in cases of diagnostic uncertainty. Pseudocyst of the pancreas can lead to complications such as hemorrhage, infection, and rupture. The management of pancreatic pseudocysts depends on the presence of symptoms and the development of complications, such as biliary or gastric outlet obstruction. Management options include endoscopic or surgical drainage. The aim of this review was to summarize the current literature on pancreatic pseudocysts and discuss the evolution of the definitions, diagnosis, and management of this condition.

Current status of endoscopic ultrasound in the diagnosis of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms.

The new Kyoto guidelines for the management of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of IPMN. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is a diagnostic modality with a high spatial resolution that allows detailed observation and obtaining cyst fluid or tissue samples via EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA). Currently, EUS is an indispensable examination method for the diagnosis of pancreatic diseases. On the other hand, there have been concerns that EUS imaging tends to be highly operator-dependent, and may lack objectivity. Previous guidelines have assigned EUS as an option for patients with worrisome features. However, recent reports indicate that the sensitivity of EUS for the diagnosis of mural nodules (MNs) is more than 90%, comparable or superior to that of contrast-enhanced computed tomography or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. The specific advantages of EUS in the diagnosis of IPMN are: (1) high spatial resolution imaging for the diagnosis of MNs, (2) contrast-enhanced EUS for differentiation of intra-cystic MNs from mucous clots, and (3) pathological diagnosis using EUS-FNA and differential diagnosis of a pancreatic cystic tumor by cystic fluid analysis. In order to utilize EUS in the diagnosis of IPMN, endoscopists are required to have the skills to provide sufficiently objective imaging findings.

Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms (IPMN): Diagnosis, Classification, and Risk Assessment - A Review of Current Medical Knowledge

Introduction In recent years, the widespread utilisation of advanced imaging modalities has led to a surge in the detection rate of pancreatic cystic lesions, particularly intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN). Consequently, this review aims to provide a comprehensive examination of IPMN, focusing on elucidating its intricate facets including definition, epidemiology, pathogenesis, classification, imaging modalities for diagnosis, analysis of pancreatic cyst fluid, evaluation of malignant potential, and identification of pertinent features. Brief Overview of Current Knowledge: IPMN represents a diagnostic conundrum owing to its variable biological behaviour encompassing both benign and malignant spectra, necessitating meticulous evaluation and risk stratification. Various imaging techniques such as MRI, CT, EUS and abdominal ultrasonography serve pivotal roles in the diagnostic algorithm and risk assessment of IPMN. Additionally, the analysis of pancreatic cyst fluid, incorporating biomarkers and the string sign test, assumes a critical role in discerning mucinous from non-mucinous cysts and gauging malignant potential. Discriminating high-risk stigmata and worrisome features serve as a compass for clinical decision-making regarding the imperative of surgical intervention versus vigilant surveillance. Summary Despite persistent challenges, the ongoing evolution of diagnostic modalities and risk assessment methodologies augur well for refining therapeutic strategies and enhancing clinical outcomes in managing IPMN. This review underscores the imperative of sustained research endeavours in the realm of pancreatic oncology to enrich our comprehension of IPMN pathophysiology and to optimise clinical care paradigms.

Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin for the Differentiation of Mucinous Pancreatic Cystic Lesions.

Undetermined pancreatic cystic lesion (PCL) differentiation benefits from endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) based on morphology and cyst fluid analysis, but room for new biomarkers exists. Our aim was to assess the intracystic and serum diagnostic value of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (Ngal) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) for differentiation of PCLs. This prospective study included patients from one tertiary hospital, evaluated between April 2018 and May 2020. EUS fine-needle aspiration or pancreatic pseudocysts drainage was the source of PCL intracystic liquid. The final diagnosis was based on surgery or EUS results (morphology, cytology, glucose, and CEA-carcinoembryogenic antigen). The intracystic samples were tested for Ngal, IL-1β, glucose, and CEA, and serum for Ngal and IL-1β. We evaluated 63 cysts, 33 pseudocysts, and 30 non-inflammatory cysts. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for mucinous PCL was 70.8% and 92.3% for intracystic Ngal (cut-off: 500-800 ng/dL), without correlation with serum Ngal, no matter the inclusion of infected pseudocysts. After exclusion of infected pseudocysts, the sensitivity and specificity for glucose were 87% and 75%, respectively, and for CEA, they were 87.1%, and 96.8%, respectively. Intracystic Ngal shows promise in differentiating mucinous PCLs, but researchers need to conduct further studies to confirm its effectiveness. Intracystic IL-1β and serum Ngal made no diagnostic contribution.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration for pancreatic cystic lesions: a comprehensive review.

Advancements in diagnostic radiology have amplified the incorporation of these techniques into routine clinical practice. Concurrently, the frequency of incidentally identifying pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) has surged. PCLs encompass diverse categories contingent upon their origin. Among them, branch duct-intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (BD-IPMN) and mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN) are categorized as mucinous cystic lesions that have malignant potential. Even solid neoplasms occasionally show cystic degeneration. Therefore, precise differential PCL diagnosis is crucial to optimize clinical management strategies and detect malignant transformations. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) affords comprehensive visualization of the pancreas with high-resolution ultrasound, complemented by fine-needle aspiration (FNA) under real-time EUS guidance, which is a minimally invasive procedure for obtaining pathological samples. This synergy has established EUS and EUS-FNA as vital procedures in the management of PCLs, enabling differentiation of PCLs. Cyst fluid analysis has played a pivotal role in deciding the optimal management strategy. The efficacy of cytological analysis is limited by scant cytologic material. The "string sign" test evaluates fluid viscosity, and its simplicity warrants initial consideration. Amylase and tumor markers, such as CEA, have been studied, but they yield varied sensitivity and specificity. Glucose and genetic mutations (KRAS, GNAS) exhibit promise, while comprehensive genomic profiling underscores genetic insights. Through-the-needle biopsy and needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy also show high diagnostic yield. EUS-FNA, however, entails risks like infection and needle tract seeding, emphasizing the need for proper utilization. Pancreatic cyst fluid analysis augments diagnostic accuracy and informs clinical decisions, making it a valuable adjunct to imaging.

Improving Pancreatic Cyst Management: Artificial Intelligence-Powered Prediction of Advanced Neoplasms through Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Confocal Endomicroscopy.

Despite the increasing rate of detection of incidental pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs), current standard-of-care methods for their diagnosis and risk stratification remain inadequate. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are the most prevalent PCLs. The existing modalities, including endoscopic ultrasound and cyst fluid analysis, only achieve accuracy rates of 65-75% in identifying carcinoma or high-grade dysplasia in IPMNs. Furthermore, surgical resection of PCLs reveals that up to half exhibit only low-grade dysplastic changes or benign neoplasms. To reduce unnecessary and high-risk pancreatic surgeries, more precise diagnostic techniques are necessary. A promising approach involves integrating existing data, such as clinical features, cyst morphology, and data from cyst fluid analysis, with confocal endomicroscopy and radiomics to enhance the prediction of advanced neoplasms in PCLs. Artificial intelligence and machine learning modalities can play a crucial role in achieving this goal. In this review, we explore current and future techniques to leverage these advanced technologies to improve diagnostic accuracy in the context of PCLs.

Exploring a novel composite method using non-contrast EUS enhanced microvascular imaging and cyst fluid analysis to differentiate pancreatic cystic lesions

Background and AimsDifferentiating pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) remains a diagnostic challenge. The use of high-definition imaging modalities which detect tumor microvasculature have been described in solid lesions. We aim to evaluate the usefulness of cystic microvasculature when used in combination with cyst fluid biochemistry to differentiate PCLs. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 110 consecutive patients with PCLs from 2 Italian Hospitals who underwent EUS with H-Flow and EUS fine needle aspiration to obtain cystic fluid. The accuracy of fluid biomarkers was evaluated against morphological features on radiology and EUS. Gold standard for diagnosis was surgical resection. A clinical and radiological follow up was applied in those patients who were not resected because not surgical indication and no signs of malignancy were shown. ResultsOf 110 patients, 65 were diagnosed with a mucinous cyst, 41 with a non-mucinous cyst, and 4 with an undetermined cyst. Fluid analysis alone yielded 76.7% sensitivity, 56.7% specificity, 77.8 positive predictive value (PPV), 55.3 negative predictive value (NPV) and 56% accuracy in diagnosing pancreatic cysts alone. Our composite method yielded 97.3% sensitivity, 77.1% specificity, 90.1% PPV, 93.1% NPV, 73.2% accuracy. ConclusionsThis new composite could be applied to the holistic approach of combining cyst morphology, vascularity, and fluid analysis alongside endoscopist expertise.

The Use of Integrated Molecular Testing in the Assessment and Management of Pancreatic Cysts.

As abdominal imaging becomes more sensitive and regularly used, pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are being diagnosed more frequently. A small but clinically significant minority of these lesions have a predisposition to either harbor malignancy or undergo malignant transformation. This review highlights the current state and performance of cystic fluid biomarkers and how they may be incorporated into management. Among the major domains of molecular testing for PCLs, DNA based analyses have demonstrated the highest accuracy in identifying cyst type and have the most data to support their clinical use. However, epigenetic and protein biomarker based molecular assessments have emerged with the potential to complement DNA based approaches. In addition, recent studies have increasingly demonstrated the value associated with combinations of mutations and other biomarkers in identifying higher grade mucinous cystic lesions. We present the performance of individual biomarkers in cyst fluid analysis with an emphasis on an algorithmic approach to improve the accurate identification of both cyst type and risk of malignant transformation.

Predictive ability of pancreatic cyst fluid biomarkers: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundMucinous pancreatic cysts harbor the potential to progress to highly lethal pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Since these precursor cysts require cancer surveillance or surgical resection, they need to be reliably distinguished from harmless pancreatic cysts. Current clinical and radiographic assessment is imperfect and the value of cyst fluid analysis for differential diagnosis is unclear. Therefore, we set out to investigate the value of cyst fluid biomarkers in distinguishing pancreatic cysts. MethodsWe performed a systematic review of the current literature to identify articles that evaluated the diagnostic performance of clinically relevant and promising candidate cyst fluid biomarkers, with a particular emphasis on DNA-based biomarkers. Meta-analysis was performed for biomarkers targeted at identifying cyst type and presence of high-grade dysplasia or PDAC. ResultsData from a total of 42 studies was analyzed. Mutations in KRAS and/or GNAS allowed identification of mucinous cysts with a sensitivity of 79% and specificity of 98%. This exceeded the performance of the traditional biomarker carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA; sensitivity 58%, specificity 87%). Mutations in VHL were specific for serous cystadenomas (SCAs; sensitivity 56%, specificity 99%) and help to exclude mucinous cysts. Mutations in CDKN2A, PIK3CA, SMAD4, and TP53 each had high specificities of 97%, 97%, 98%, and 95%, respectively, to identify high-grade dysplasia or PDAC in mucinous cysts. ConclusionsCyst fluid analysis can be a valuable tool in the characterization of pancreatic cysts, with relevant clinical implications. Our results support the use of DNA-based cyst fluid biomarkers in the multidisciplinary diagnostic work-up of pancreatic cysts.

Bilateral peri-renal macrocystic lymphatic malformation in pediatric age-unusual presentation

Lymphatic malformations are benign lesions, found in children, most common locations are neck and axillary regions. We report here a case of bilateral Peri-renal macrocystic lymphatic malformation in a 12-year-old female, masquerading as bilateral renal cysts. A 12-year-old female presented with complaints of pain in right flank for one week associated with fullness in right flank. On evaluation a provisional diagnosis of right perirenal lymphangioma was made and ultrasound guided pigtail drainage done. The pigtail output was 200-300ml daily for a week and it was removed and child was discharged. However, on follow up, CT was done and bilateral peri-renal lymphatic malformation(right>left) was diagnosed. Patient was then planned for exploratory laparotomy which revealed bilateral perirenal cyst, circumscribing both the kidneys completely. Excision of bilateral cysts was done and sent for histopathological evaluation. Cyst Fluid analysis revealed normal creatinine, LDH, total cholesterol, total protein, triglycerides, urea levels. Post-operative period was uneventful. Histopathological examination revealed cystic lesions formed by endothelial cells with focal inflammation, no signs of malignancy were seen. The child was followed up post-operatively and there was no evidence of recurrence. Perirenal lymphatic malformation is a rare entity. The entity is thought to be the result of the obstruction of the perirenal lymphatics. We are presenting this case for its rarity and unusual presentation. Macro cystic Lymphatic malformations are common diagnosis but around the kidneys, there are only very few cases reported in literature. Prognosis of cystic lymphatic malformation is excellent.

A giant congenital ranula: ignorance leading to feeding difficulties

The term “Ranula” originates from the Latin Word Rana which means “underbelly of a frog.” Ranula are epithelial retention cyst or mucus extravasation pseudo cyst arising from the sublingual glands. They are rare in children. A one-year-old female was brought to paediatric surgery emergency OPD by her mother with complaints of swelling arising from oral cavity since birth, gradually increased in size to attain current size. Mother also gives History of difficulty in feeding. Clinical examination revealed a large protruded tongue, with a cystic swelling in the floor of the mouth measuring around 6×4 cm, with elevation of the tongue. Child was further evaluated; ultrasound was suggestive of ranula. Marsupialisation of the cyst was done. Intraoperatively, cyst fluid was aspirated for analysis and cyst wall was opened and excised, lateral margins of cyst were sutured to base of mouth. Cyst fluid analysis revealed elevated amylase and normal LDH levels. The post-operative period was uneventful. The histopathology report showed a pattern consistent with ranula. Child was followed up for a period of 1 year and there was no evidence of recurrence. We report a case of giant congenital ranula. The rarity of this condition in children and its atypical size make this case report unique. We treated the child with marsupialization and there was no recurrence noted. Hereby I would like to state that congenital symptomatic ranulas though rare can be managed with marsupialisation.

Artificial Intelligence in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions and Adenocarcinoma.

Pancreatic cancer is projected to become the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States by 2030. This is in part due to the paucity of reliable screening and diagnostic options for early detection. Amongst known pre-malignant pancreatic lesions, pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are the most prevalent. The current standard of care for the diagnosis and classification of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) involves cross-sectional imaging studies and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and, when indicated, EUS-guided fine needle aspiration and cyst fluid analysis. However, this is suboptimal for the identification and risk stratification of PCLs, with accuracy of only 65-75% for detecting mucinous PCLs. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a promising tool that has been applied to improve accuracy in screening for solid tumors, including breast, lung, cervical, and colon cancer. More recently, it has shown promise in diagnosing pancreatic cancer by identifying high-risk populations, risk-stratifying premalignant lesions, and predicting the progression of IPMNs to adenocarcinoma. This review summarizes the available literature on artificial intelligence in the screening and prognostication of precancerous lesions in the pancreas, and streamlining the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

Giant gastric stromal tumor with predominant cystic formation misdiagnosed as gastric cyst under endoscopic ultrasonography and fine-needle aspiration.

A 78-year-old man was admitted owing to 10 days of abdominal pain. He had a history of coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension. Laboratory results, including tumor markers, blood amylase, and lipase, were unremarkable. During physical examination, a mass was palpated in the left upper abdomen (from the left costal arch to the umbilicus), which had an indistinct boundary and was poorly mobile. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed a bulge in the gastric fundus with an unremarkable mucosa ([Fig. 1]). Computerized tomography revealed a huge abdominal cystic mass (23.3 × 14 × 22 cm), which had an indistinct boundary with the stomach ([Fig. 2]), and distinct boundaries with adjacent organs such as the liver, pancreas, etc. Endoscopic ultrasonography revealed a hypoechoic cystic lesion with scarred hyperechoic strip, and fine-needle aspiration was performed ([Video 1]). A rapid on-site evaluation was unremarkable. The cystic fluid analysis revealed a negative stringing test, normal amylase and lipase, slightly elevated CA125 and ferroprotein, with normal CEA, CA199, and AFP. Cell block and immunocytochemistry were also undiagnosed. Surgical resection was performed ([Fig. 3]), and 3000-mL cystic fluids were aspirated intraoperatively. Postoperative histology showed a spindle cell tumor ([Fig. 4]) with necrosis and cystic degeneration, and immunohistochemical results showed positive staining of CD117, DOG1 ([Fig. 5]), and CD34, with negative staining of SMA, S100, and Ki-67 index of 25 %, and mitoschisis of 8/50 HPF. Therefore, the final diagnosis was a high-risk gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). He refused imatinib treatment and died within 2 years.

Markedly elevated pancreatic cyst fluid cea: reconsidering its role in risk stratification

Background: Pancreatic cyst fluid CEA plays an important role in the diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions. However, the evidence to date on its potential use in risk stratification for mucinous lesions is heterogenous. The height of the CEA elevation is currently being used in algorithms of commercially available pancreatic cyst fluid analysis (PCFA) platforms. Further, clinicians continue to have concern about patients with markedly elevated cyst fluid CEA. We therefore sought to examine the relationship between the height of the CEA elevation and the structural and molecular properties of the cyst and cyst fluid.

Exploring a Novel Composite Diagnostic Tool Using Non-contrast EUS Enhanced Cyst Wall Microvascular Imaging and Cyst Fluid Analysis to Differentiate Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms.

Exploring a Novel Composite Diagnostic Tool Using Non-contrast EUS Enhanced Cyst Wall Microvascular Imaging and Cyst Fluid Analysis to Differentiate Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms.

Molecular Analysis of Pancreatic Cyst Fluid for the Management of Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal human cancers. Early detection and diagnosis of precursor lesions for pancreatic malignancy is essential to improve the morbidity and mortality associated with this diagnosis. Of the cystic precursor lesions, branch duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) is the most frequently identified lesion and has a wide range of malignant potential. Currently, Carcinogenic embryonic antigen (CEA) levels in the cyst fluid and cytology are the two most often utilized tools to diagnose these lesions; however, their diagnostic and risk stratification capabilities are somewhat limited. Within the last decade, the use of endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration has opened the door for molecular analysis of cystic fluid as an option to enhance both the diagnosis and risk stratification of these lesions. The first step is to differentiate branch duct IPMNs from other lesions. KRAS and GNAS alterations have been shown to be accurate markers for this purpose. Following cyst type identification, mutational analysis, telomere fusion, microRNAs, long non-coding RNA, and DNA methylation have been identified as potential targets for stratifying malignant potential using the cystic fluid. In this review, we will examine the various targets of cyst fluid molecular analysis and their utility in the diagnosis and risk stratification of branch duct IPMNs.

High tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP 5b) level in cystic fluid is a significant prognostic marker for postoperative recurrence in solitary bone cysts.

The pathogenesis of cystic fluid storage in solitary bone cysts remains unclear. We aimed to compare the results of the biochemical analysis of cystic fluid with clinical findings. We identified a significant marker of postoperative recurrence. Twenty-seven male and eight female patients were studied; the median age at diagnosis was 11 (5-23) years. The mean follow-up period was 60 months (range: 14-146 months). Clinical information including sex, age, affected site, radiological findings of phase (active or latent), surgical procedure, outcome, and biochemical analysis of serum and cystic fluid was obtained. The 5-year healing rate was 64.0%. Biochemical analysis revealed that total protein and albumin values in the cystic fluid were significantly lower, compared to those in the serum. Levels of bone turnover markers, such as alkaline phosphatase, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b were remarkably elevated in the cystic fluid than in the serum. R values were 0.127, 0.076, and 0.095 for alkaline phosphatase, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b, respectively. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves, calculated to assess the association of alkaline phosphatase, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b levels in the cystic fluid with postoperative recurrence, were 0.57, 0.51, and 0.70, respectively. No clear correlation of bone turnover marker levels between the serum and cystic fluid was observed. The high tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b level in the cystic fluid was associated with postoperative recurrence. The bone resorption caused by osteoclasts is considered to affect postoperative recurrence. Level IV.