Natural course and outcome of cystic lesions in the pancreas

Abstract

Background: The number of patients identified with cysts of the pancreas is increasing. The current study was undertaken to assess the natural course and malignant potential of pancreatic cysts. Methods: From 1995 to 2008, radiology records were reviewed for the presence of cystic lesions of the pancreas (CLP) characteristics, patient demographics, and follow-up. Results: Eighty-two patients met the study inclusion criteria, with a mean age at time of diagnosis of 64.4 ± 16.7 years. Mean cyst size was 1.36 ± 1.05 cm, with 75.6% of patients having a solitary cyst. Thirteen patients underwent surgery. Operative intervention was statistically related to symptomatic, loculated cysts with the presence of calcifications (all P