Book an Appointment
Emergency: 022-61305005
I want to find
My Health Records
Management Team

Pancreatic Cysts

Overview

Pancreatic cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form within the pancreas. The fluid is secreted by the lining of the cyst (epithelial layer), which then accumulates within the cavity. They may be discovered incidentally (by chance) during scans such as ultrasound or CT done for unrelated reasons. With modern imaging being used more frequently, doctors are finding pancreatic cysts in up to 0.3–20% of people undergoing abdominal scans. Most pancreatic cysts are harmless, but a few types may carry a risk of becoming cancerous over time. Therefore, every pancreatic cyst should be carefully evaluated and monitored.

The types of pancreatic cysts include:

  • Pseudocysts: Non-cancerous cysts that usually develop after pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
  • Serous Cystadenoma: Benign (non-cancerous) cysts that rarely need treatment.
  • Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm (MCN): Cysts with a mucin (thick fluid) lining that can sometimes turn into cancer.
  • Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm (IPMN): Cysts that form inside the pancreatic ducts; some types can progress to cancer.

Most pancreatic cysts do not cause symptoms and are found incidentally. When present, symptoms may include:

  • Vague abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Nausea, vomiting, or acidity-like symptoms
  • Yellowing of eyes and skin (jaundice, caused by blockage of the bile ducts due to pressure from large cysts)

Some of the common causes of pancreatic cysts include:

  • Pancreatitis-related pseudocysts: Occur after inflammation or injury to the pancreas.
  • Developmental cysts: Form due to abnormal growth of pancreatic tissue.
  • Neoplastic cysts: Cysts that have potential to develop into cancer, such as MCN and IPMN.

Several tests are used to identify and characterise pancreatic cysts:

  • CT scan: Mandatory for diagnosis.
  • MRCP (MR Cholangiopancreatography) or MRI pancreas: Provides a clearer picture of cyst type and structure.
  • Endoscopic procedures (ERCP/EUS): An endoscope with ultrasound helps assess cyst details and sometimes allows fluid sampling or biopsy.

Treatment of the cyst depends on its nature and its potential to turn cancerous:

  • Observation / Surveillance: Safe for certain cysts like serous cystadenoma, pseudocysts, and some IPMN. Regular imaging is done to monitor them.
  • Surgery (Pancreatic Resection): Needed for cysts with a high risk of cancer (MCN, some IPMN). This involves removing the part of the pancreas containing the cyst, either through open or laparoscopic surgery.
  • Endoscopic or Radiologic Treatment: Some pseudocysts can be drained or managed without surgery.

You should consult a doctor if you:

  • Have been diagnosed with a pancreatic cyst on a scan.
  • Experience persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
  • Notice jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin).
  • Have a history of pancreatitis and develop new abdominal symptoms.

Pancreatic cysts themselves cannot always be prevented. However, you can reduce risks by:

  • Managing pancreatitis promptly and effectively.
  • Avoiding excessive alcohol intake and smoking, which increase pancreatic problems.
  • Regular follow-up scans if you have a known pancreatic cyst.

Patients with suspected pancreatic cysts should consult a:

  • Gastroenterologist: First point of evaluation, performs endoscopic procedures.
  • Pancreatic or hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) surgeon: For surgical management of high-risk cysts.
  • Medical oncologist: If cysts are suspected to be or turn cancerous.

Disclaimer:

The information in this Health Library is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition or before starting any treatment. Use of this site and its content does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. In case of a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or visit the nearest emergency facility immediately.