Pancreatic Lesions and Cysts
Pancreatic lesions and cysts are abnormal growths or fluid-filled sacs that develop within the pancreas. Many are harmless and cause no symptoms, but some can increase the risk of pancreatic cancer and require careful monitoring or treatment.
What are pancreatic lesions and cysts?
The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach that helps with digestion and blood sugar regulation.
A pancreatic lesion is a broad term used to describe any abnormal area within the pancreas. Some lesions are solid, while others contain fluid and are known as pancreatic cysts.
Pancreatic cysts are becoming increasingly common because modern imaging scans, such as CT and MRI scans, can detect even very small abnormalities. Many pancreatic cysts are discovered by chance during scans performed for unrelated reasons.
Most pancreatic cysts are benign (non-cancerous). However, some types can develop into cancer over time, which is why accurate diagnosis and ongoing monitoring are important.
Common types of pancreatic cysts include:
pseudocysts, which often develop after pancreatitis
serous cystadenomas, which are usually benign
mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs), which may carry a risk of cancer
intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs), which develop within the pancreatic ducts and may become cancerous
solid pseudopapillary neoplasms, which are rare tumours that can sometimes become malignant
At Welbeck, our specialists provide expert assessment of pancreatic lesions and cysts, using advanced imaging and diagnostic techniques to determine the most appropriate management plan for each patient.
More information
Many pancreatic cysts and lesions don’t cause symptoms, particularly when they’re small.
When symptoms do occur, they may include:
abdominal pain, particularly in the upper abdomen
pain that spreads to the back
nausea
vomiting
bloating
feeling full quickly after eating
unexplained weight loss
loss of appetite
jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
new-onset diabetes
recurrent episodes of pancreatitis
The symptoms often depend on the size, location and type of lesion. Larger cysts may press on nearby structures, causing discomfort or digestive symptoms.
If you experience persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice or recurrent pancreatitis, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.
The causes of pancreatic lesions and cysts vary by type.
Pancreatic pseudocysts
Pseudocysts most commonly develop after inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis. This may occur following:
excessive alcohol consumption
pancreatic injury
pancreatic infection
Neoplastic cysts
Some cysts develop due to abnormal growth of pancreatic cells. These are known as neoplastic cysts and include IPMNs and mucinous cystic neoplasms.
We don’t yet fully understand why these cysts develop, but genetic changes within pancreatic cells are thought to play a role.
Other pancreatic lesions
Solid pancreatic lesions may arise from benign growths, neuroendocrine tumours, or pancreatic cancer.
Risk factors
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing pancreatic abnormalities, including:
increasing age
a history of pancreatitis
smoking
obesity
a family history of pancreatic cancer
certain inherited genetic conditions
Having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop pancreatic cancer, but it may influence how closely a lesion should be monitored.
At Welbeck, your consultant will begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history and any previous imaging results.
Some pancreatic cysts can be identified confidently using imaging alone, while others require additional investigation to determine whether they carry any risk of cancer.
Diagnostic tests may include:
magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)
fine needle aspiration (FNA) of cyst fluid during EUS
Endoscopic ultrasound is one of the most useful investigations for pancreatic cysts. During this procedure, a specialist passes a thin flexible camera through the mouth into the stomach and small intestine. An ultrasound probe at the tip allows detailed imaging of the pancreas.
In some cases, a small sample of fluid can be collected from the cyst and analysed. This helps determine the type of cyst and whether there are any concerning features.
Many patients are relieved to learn that their cyst is benign and only requires routine surveillance.
It’s not always possible to prevent pancreatic cysts or lesions from developing.
However, certain lifestyle measures may help reduce your risk of pancreatic disease and support overall pancreatic health:
avoid smoking
maintain a healthy weight
limit alcohol consumption
manage diabetes effectively
follow a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables and wholegrains
seek prompt treatment for gallstones if recommended
People with a strong family history of pancreatic cancer may benefit from specialist assessment and, in some cases, screening programmes.
Many pancreatic cysts remain stable for years and never cause problems.
However, some lesions can lead to complications, particularly if they’re large or have features associated with cancer risk.
Possible complications include:
recurrent pancreatitis
infection within a cyst
cyst rupture, which is uncommon
blockage of the bile duct causing jaundice
blockage of the pancreatic duct
digestive problems
development of pancreatic cancer in certain high-risk cysts
It’s important to remember that most pancreatic cysts don’t become cancerous. Modern imaging techniques and surveillance programmes allow specialists to identify concerning changes early and intervene when necessary.
Your consultant will explain your individual risk and recommend an appropriate monitoring schedule if required.
Treatment depends on the type of lesion, its size, your symptoms, and whether there are any features suggesting a risk of cancer.
Some patients require no treatment and only need regular monitoring.
Treatment options may include:
active surveillance with regular MRI, CT or endoscopic ultrasound scans
treatment of underlying pancreatitis
drainage of symptomatic pancreatic pseudocysts
endoscopic procedures to evaluate or treat cysts
surgical removal of high-risk cysts
surgical removal of suspicious or cancerous lesions
multidisciplinary specialist review involving gastroenterologists, surgeons, and radiologists
For many patients, surveillance is the safest and most appropriate option. This allows your specialist to monitor for any changes while avoiding unnecessary surgery.
If surgery is recommended, your consultant will explain the benefits, risks and expected recovery in detail.
At Welbeck, our pancreatic surgeons and physicians are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.
With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.
All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.
Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.
Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.
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Frequently asked questions
No. Most pancreatic cysts are benign and never become cancerous. However, some types carry a higher risk than others, which is why specialist assessment and monitoring are important.
The frequency of surveillance depends on the size, type and appearance of the cyst. Some cysts require annual scans, while others may need more frequent monitoring. Your consultant will create a personalised surveillance plan.
Some pancreatic pseudocysts may resolve without treatment, particularly if the underlying pancreatitis improves. Most true pancreatic cysts don’t disappear and may require ongoing monitoring.
Surgery may be recommended if a cyst causes symptoms, continues to grow, blocks nearby structures, or shows features associated with an increased risk of cancer. The decision is based on a careful assessment of the risks and benefits for each individual.