Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms (PCN)

Abstract

The pancreatic cystic lesions are more frequently detected from commonly-used cross-sectional imaging studies. They usually are incidental finding without any symptoms. There are several types of neoplastic pancreatic cyst with different natural history and management. Either radiologic or endoscopic modalities are mentioned to be helpful in differentiating type of cyst. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) and mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN) are mucinous cysts harboring risk of malignancy. Any lesions with high-risk features should be identified and resected to prevent invasive cancer. However, malignancy can be found in remnant of pancreas after IPMN resected, long-term follow-up imaging is recommended. Serous cystic neoplasm (SCN) is not associated with invasive carcinoma, no specific management is needed. Solid-pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) is rare cystic tumor with aggressive behavior and malignant risk, surgical resection is required. Plan of proper management should be established for individual patient by multidisciplinary team of experts for the best outcome.