Cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas

Cystic neoplasms of the pancreas are uncommon. The authors present one case each of a cystic carcinoma (possibly acinar, which is a rare variant of pancreatic carcinoma), cystadenocarcinoma arising in a mucinous cystadenoma and cystadenoma. These cases illustrate important features of the natural history and management of these lesions. The macrocystic cystadenoma is generally regarded as premalignant and merits aggressive treatment, while the microcystic type is considered benign. If the cystadenoma is removed completely, there should be no recurrence. The cystadenocarcinoma differs from duct carcinoma; usually, the tumour can be removed, and when this is possible the prognosis is excellent. Both the cystadenoma and the cystadenocarcinoma can be mistaken for a pancreatic pseudocyst. The distinction is important.