Pancreatic cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in the pancreas, often found incidentally during imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs. Most pancreatic cysts are benign, but some can carry the risk of becoming malignant, especially in older adults. Pancreatic pseudocysts, a specific type of cyst often associated with pancreatitis, are also common.
While many cysts are asymptomatic, some may cause abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. Diagnosis of pancreatic cysts involves imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI, and sometimes additional tests, such as endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA), to check for cancer markers.
Treatment depends on the cyst’s size, type, and risk of malignancy. Smaller cysts may just require monitoring, while larger or potentially cancerous cysts may need surgical removal. Dr. Patta Radhakrishna has extensive experience in treating pancreatic cysts and pseudocysts, offering expert care to his patients.
What Are Pancreatic Cysts?
Pancreatic cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in the pancreas. They are increasingly diagnosed due to the improved use of imaging technologies like CT scans and MRIs. The incidence of pancreatic cysts has risen, particularly in older adults, with most being benign pancreatic cysts, though some have the potential to become malignant.
Causes of Pancreatic Cysts
The causes of pancreatic cysts vary and can include genetic factors, pancreatitis, or pancreatic injuries. Individuals with a family history of pancreatic cancer or hereditary conditions are at a higher risk.
Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cysts
Diagnosis of pancreatic cysts typically involves imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scans, and MRIs. Once identified, further tests may be needed to assess the cyst’s risk of malignancy. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) can help analyze the cyst fluid for cancer markers.
Management and Treatment of Pancreatic Cysts
Management of pancreatic pseudocysts and other types of pancreatic cysts depends on the type, size, and malignancy risk of the cyst. Small, benign cysts often require no treatment beyond monitoring, while larger or potentially cancerous cysts may need pancreatic cyst surgery for removal. Surgical techniques such as laparoscopy or open surgery are used depending on the complexity and location of the cyst.
Pancreatic pseudocyst treatment requires careful management, especially in cases of recurrent pancreatitis. Pseudocysts of the pancreas are a definitive group of benign disorders and need expert treatment.
Dr. Patta’s Expertise in Treating Pancreatic Cysts
Dr. Patta Radhakrishna has been treating pancreatic cysts and pseudocysts for the past four decades with successful outcomes.
Dr. Patta Radhakrishna has been treating pancreatic cysts and pseudocysts for the past four decades with successful outcomes.
