Pancreas
Pancreatic cysts & lumps
Cysts in the pancreas are often found on a scan done for another reason. Most are harmless. Some need monitoring or treatment.
Common symptoms
- Often no symptoms
- When present: upper belly pain, jaundice or weight loss
Causes and risk factors
- Fluid collections (pseudocysts) after pancreatitis
- Serous cysts, which are almost always harmless
- Mucinous cysts, some of which can change over time
- Cysts linked to the pancreatic duct (IPMN)
How it is diagnosed
A CT or MRI scan shows the cyst. Endoscopic ultrasound gives a closer view and can sample the fluid with a fine needle to identify the type.
Treatment
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) gives a close view and can take a fine-needle sample, so the right plan can be made.
Procedures that may help
When to see a gastroenterologist
Any cyst or lump in the pancreas reported on a scan.
Common questions
Is a pancreatic cyst cancer?
Most are not. A few types can turn into cancer over years, which is why the type and size decide whether to watch it or treat it.
How often do I need scans?
It depends on the cyst type and size. Small, harmless-looking cysts may need a scan every one to two years.