Case of a rare type of non-neoplastic mucinous pancreatic cyst – likely new pathological entity?

Full text:Introduction: The cystic lesions of the pancreas consists of a range of pathologies which may be broadly divided into neoplastic, non- neoplastic and cysts. Recently a new non-neoplastic cystic lesions, called mucinous non-neoplastic cysts, have been described. Materials and Methods: The imaging methods (ultrasound and CT ) were used as well as invasive imaging methods under image control with a view of the histological verification of the diagnosis. A case of pancreatic cystic lesion is described, accidentally detected by ultrasound and CT scan made for different purpose. Results : The finding was a 28/32 mm cyst in the body of the pancreas, apparently communicating with the pancreatic duct . The Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography and laboratory tests of liver function, serum CEA and carbohydrate antigen C19 -9 were within normal limits. After the distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy the lasting histological specimen showed a simple cyst, lined with mucinous epithelium. Conclusion: The presented case guides the imaging diagnosticians and surgeons towards seeking a thorough preoperative clarification of pancreatic cystic lesions. It is recommended that patients diagnosed with 'benign' mucinous neoplasm are closely monitored due to the inability to completely confirm the benign nature of the lesion