Prospective study on the incidence, prevalence and 5-year pancreatic-related mortality of pancreatic cysts in a population-based study

Pancreatic cyst surveillance imposes low psychological burden

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

For the currently recommended pancreatic cyst surveillance to be feasible, participant adherence is a prerequisite. Our objective was to evaluate the psychological burden of pancreatic cyst surveillance from a participant's perspective.

METHODS

The present participant survey is part of an international cohort study (PACYFIC study, www.pacyfic.net), which prospectively records the outcome of surveillance of asymptomatic pancreatic cysts. Participants are invited to complete questionnaires before and during cyst surveillance.

RESULTS

109 participants, 31 enrolled before and 78 during surveillance (median time since cyst diagnosis 16.5 (IQR 36) months), returned a total of 179 questionnaires. The majority indicated that surveillance reduces concerns of developing pancreatic cancer (82%), gives a sense of certainty (81%) and is a good method to detect cancer (91%). Participants already undergoing surveillance reported more negative aspects than those still to commence, like sleeping worse (30% vs 13%, P = 0.035), postponing plans (32% vs 13%, P = 0.031), and finding the follow-up burdensome (33% vs 13%, P = 0.044). Overall, the vast majority (94%) deemed advantages to outweigh disadvantages. Anxiety and depression scores were low (median Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale 4 for anxiety (IQR 6), 2 for depression (IQR 5)).

CONCLUSION

The psychological burden of pancreatic cyst surveillance is low. Therefore, participant adherence is expected to be high and annual surveillance seems feasible.

Diagnostic yield of endoscopic ultrasound with fine-needle aspiration in pancreatic cystic lesions

INTRODUCTION

Despite advances in imaging techniques, in many cases they are insufficient to establish the diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCL). There are few publications in our setting that evaluate the combination of several methods obtained by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA). The aim of the study was to evaluate the overall utility of EUS-FNA in the diagnosis of PCL.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective study based on a database updated prospectively of a cohort of patients referred for EUS-FNA due to PCL detected in an imaging test. The sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic yield of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), cytology and viscosity were studied to detect mucinous lesions.

RESULTS

From November 2013 to April 2018, 122 EUS were performed for PCL. EUS-FNA was performed in 94/122 (77%) and 21/122 (17.2%) patients were operated on. We included 33/122 patients who had diagnostic confirmation by histology, imaging (serous cyst with typical pattern) or clinical evolution. The study of the ROC curve determined the cutoff point ≥419 ng/ml to differentiate mucinous/non-mucinous cystic lesions. The diagnostic yield of CEA was 87.5% (21/24), cytology 81.8% (27/33) and viscosity 84.4% (27/32). The three parameters in combination obtained the best result (30/33, 90.9%).

CONCLUSION

The combination of CEA analysis, cytology and viscosity of pancreatic fluid obtained by EUS-FNA increases the performance in the diagnosis of mucinous pancreatic cystic lesions, with it being greater than 90%.

Endoscopic ultrasound-through-the-needle biopsy in pancreatic cystic lesions: A large single center experience

BACKGROUND

Establishing a diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) preoperatively still remains challenging. Recently, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-through-the-needle biopsy (EUS-TTNB) using microforceps in PCLs has been made available.

AIM

To assess the efficacy and safety of EUS-TTNB in the diagnosis of PCLs.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected data of patients with PCLs who underwent both EUS-fine-needle aspiration (FNA) for cytology and EUS-TTNB at our institution since 2016. EUS-FNA for cytology was followed by EUS-TTNB in the same session. Evaluation of the cyst location, primary diagnosis, adverse events, and comparison between the cytologic fluid analyses and histopathology was performed. Technical success of EUS-TTNB was defined as visible tissue present after biopsy. Clinical success was defined as the presence of a specimen adequate to make a histologic or cytologic diagnosis.

RESULTS

A total of 56 patients (mean age 66.9 ± 11.7, 53.6% females) with PCLs were enrolled over the study period. The mean cyst size was 28.8 mm (12-85 mm). The EUS-TTNB procedure was technically successful in all patients (100%). The clinical success rate using EUS-TTNB was much higher than standard EUS-FNA, respectively 80.4% (45/56) vs 25% (14/56). Adverse events occurred in 2 patients (3.6%) who developed mild pancreatitis that resolved with medical therapy. Using TTNB specimens, 23 of 32 cases (71.9%) with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm were further differentiated into gastric type (19 patients) and pancreaticobiliary type (4 patients) based on immunochemical staining.

CONCLUSION

EUS-TTNB for PCLs was technically feasible and had a favorable safety profile. Furthermore, the diagnostic yield for PCLs was much higher with EUS-TTNB than standard EUS-FNA cytology and fluid carcinoembryonic antigen. EUS-TTNB should be considered as an adjunct to EUS-FNA and cytologic analysis in the diagnosis and management of PCLs.

Abdominal Imaging of Pancreatic Cysts and Cyst-Associated Pancreatic Cancer in BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Direct-to-consumer BRCA testing will increase BRCA diagnoses and subsequent abdominal imaging. It is unclear whether BRCA carriers are at higher risk of developing pancreatic cysts (PCs) or cyst-associated pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We investigated the prevalence of PCs in BRCA-tested patients, and whether BRCA-carriers have higher rates of PDAC when PCs are found.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective cross-sectional study of patients with BRCA testing and abdominal imaging between 1996 and 2018. Pancreatic cysts were identified on original imaging reports. Prevalence and risk characteristics of PCs, as well as incidence of PDAC, were compared between BRCA+, BRCA-, and BRCA-untested patients.

RESULTS

Pancreatic cysts were identified in 4,045 patients among 128,164 unique patients with abdominal imaging, including 33 patients with PCs in 1,113 BRCA-tested patients. There was no difference in PC prevalence between BRCA+, BRCA-, and untested patients (3.6%, 2.6%, 3.2%, respectively; p = 0.64). Pancreatic cysts were diagnosed in BRCA+ patients at a younger age (57.1 vs 65.3 years, p < 0.001); however, there was no difference in risk stratification compared with BRCA- or untested patients by consensus criteria. Across the population of imaged patients, patients with PCs had significantly higher rates of PDAC compared with those without PCs (18.2% vs 2.4%, p < 0.001). Incidence of cyst-associated PDAC was similar in BRCA+ and BRCA- patients (13.3% vs 22.2%, p = 0.84).

CONCLUSIONS

BRCA+ patients have similar rates of PCs, high-risk features in their cysts, and PDAC as BRCA- and untested patients. BRCA+ patients likely do not require dedicated abdominal imaging to evaluate for PCs and should follow management guidelines similar to those as the untested general population if an incidental PC is identified.

Diagnosis and management of pancreatic cystic neoplasms: current evidence and guidelines

Pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCN) are a heterogeneous group of pancreatic cysts that include intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, mucinous cystic neoplasms, serous cystic neoplasms and other rare cystic lesions, all with different biological behaviours and variable risk of progression to malignancy. As more pancreatic cysts are incidentally discovered on routine cross-sectional imaging, optimal surveillance for patients with PCN is becoming an increasingly common clinical problem, highlighting the need to balance cancer prevention with the risk of (surgical) overtreatment. This Review summarizes the latest developments in the diagnosis and management of PCN, including the quality of available evidence. Also discussed are the most important differences between the PCN guidelines from the American Gastroenterological Association, the International Association of Pancreatology and the European Study Group on Cystic Tumours of the Pancreas, including diagnostic and follow-up strategies and indications for surgery. Finally, new developments in the management of patients with PCN are addressed.

Development of a stratification tool to identify pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms at lowest risk of progression

BACKGROUND

Because most pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) will never become malignant, currently advocated long-term surveillance is low-yield for most individuals.

AIM

To develop a score chart identifying IPMNs at lowest risk of developing worrisome features or high-risk stigmata.

METHODS

We combined prospectively maintained pancreatic cyst surveillance databases of three academic institutions. Patients were included if they had a presumed side-branch IPMN, without worrisome features or high-risk stigmata at baseline (as defined by the 2012 international Fukuoka guidelines), and were followed ≥ 12 months. The endpoint was development of one or more worrisome features or high-risk stigmata during follow-up. We created a multivariable prediction model using Cox-proportional logistic regression analysis and performed an internal-external validation.

RESULTS

875 patients were included. After a mean follow-up of 50 months (range 12-157), 116 (13%) patients developed worrisome features or high-risk stigmata. The final model included cyst size (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.09-1.15), cyst multifocality (HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.01-2.18), ever having smoked (HR 1.40, 95% CI 0.95-2.04), history of acute pancreatitis (HR 2.07, 95% CI 1.21-3.55), and history of extrapancreatic malignancy (HR 1.34, 95% CI 0.91-1.97). After validation, the model had good discriminative ability (C-statistic 0.72 in the Mayo cohort, 0.71 in the Columbia cohort, 0.64 in the Erasmus cohort).

CONCLUSION

In presumed side branch IPMNs without worrisome features or high-risk stigmata at baseline, the Dutch-American Risk stratification Tool (DART-1) successfully identifies pancreatic lesions at low risk of developing worrisome features or high-risk stigmata.

The prevalence and impact of low faecal elastase-1 in community-based patients with type 2 diabetes

AIMS

To determine the prevalence of low faecal elastase-1 (FE-1) (≤200 μg/g) in type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and to test the hypothesis that pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) would reduce postprandial glycaemia after a high-fat, high-carbohydrate meal in T2DM subjects with low FE-1.

METHODS

Of 109 community-based patients who submitted stool samples, 10 had low FE-1 and 8 were recruited (6 male, 2 female, 67.8 ± 3.0 years). Participants were given a high-fat, high-carbohydrate meal (718 kcal) with either pancrelipase (50,000 units) or placebo in a randomised, double-blind, crossover fashion. The primary outcome was the difference in postprandial glycaemia following PERT vs placebo, as evaluated by the incremental area under the postprandial plasma glucose curve (iAUC). Secondary outcomes included differences in gastric half-emptying time (T50) measured using scintigraphy, and C-peptide iAUC.

RESULTS

The prevalence of low FE-1 in T2DM was 9.2% (95% CI 3.8-14.6%). There was no difference in postprandial glycaemia iAUC (P = 0.38), gastric emptying T50 (P = 0.69) or C-peptide iAUC (P = 0.25) after PERT compared to placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Decreased FE-1 has a relatively low prevalence in community-based patients with T2DM, and PERT does not reduce postprandial glycaemia in these patients.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12617000349347.

Role of transabdominal ultrasonography in the diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions

Pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are incidental findings that are being increasingly identified because of recent advancements in abdominal imaging technologies. PCLs include different entities, with each of them having a peculiar biological behavior, and they range from benign to premalignant or malignant neoplasms. Therefore, accurate diagnosis is important to determine the best treatment strategy. As transabdominal ultrasonography (US) is noninvasive, inexpensive, and widely available, it is considered to be the most appropriate imaging modality for the initial evaluation of abdominal diseases, including PCLs, and for follow-up assessment. We present a review of the possibilities and limits of US in the diagnosis of PCLs, the technical development of US, and the ultrasonographic characteristics of PCLs.

Next-generation sequencing of endoscopic ultrasound guided microbiopsies from pancreatic cystic neoplasms

AIMS

Interpretation of cytology samples from pancreatic cysts is challenging. A novel microbiopsy forceps used during endoscopic ultrasound examinations offers new opportunities for histological examination of tissue from pancreatic cysts as well as next-generation sequencing. The aim of this study was to analyse the results of next-generation sequencing of microbiopsies from pancreatic cysts.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Microbiopsies from 27 patients were obtained, 23 of which were subjected to next-generation sequencing. Sixteen intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms harboured mutations in genes regulating cell cycle and repair, and three were without mutations. Most frequent mutations were found in the KRAS and GNAS genes, and these were often concomitant. Three serous cystic neoplasms were without mutations, while with regard to histology, a non-diagnostic microbiopsy harboured a KRAS and a TP53 mutation and was deemed malignant after clinical follow-up. Three patients underwent surgery, and the point mutations detected in the microbiopsies were confirmed in the resected specimens. We identified one resected sample with an additional GNAS mutation which was not identified in the microbiopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Next-generation sequencing of microbiopsies may have the potential to improve diagnostic decision-making.

Association Between Pancreatic Cystic Lesions and High-grade Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Aging: An Autopsy Study

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to clarify clinicopathological features of pancreatic cysts.

METHODS

Pancreata from 280 autopsies (median, 83 years; male, 146; female, 134) were sectioned every 5 mm. Cysts (<10 mm) were diagnosed as a simple cyst or low-grade, intermediate-grade, or high-grade dysplasia.

RESULTS

We found 236 cysts in 93 patients (33.2%). The number and diameter of cysts increased according to the age. Of the 236 cysts, 9 (3.8%) were with high-grade dysplasia. Cysts with high-grade dysplasia arose in the pancreata of older patients with larger numbers of cysts. In contrast, 15 noncystic lesions with high-grade dysplasia were also detected. Hence, in total, 24 high-grade dysplastic lesions in 15 patients (5.4%) were noted. Of the 15 patients with high-grade dysplastic lesions, in 10 patients, the condition was accompanied by pancreatic cysts, whereas 5 patients did not have any cysts in the pancreas; therefore, patients with cyst showed higher incidence of high-grade dysplasia (10.8%; P = 0.0047) than patients without cyst (2.7%). All cysts with high-grade dysplasia were located in the branch duct of the pancreatic head/body, whereas 20% of noncystic lesions with high-grade dysplasia were located in the main pancreatic duct.

CONCLUSIONS

Cystic lesions with high-grade dysplasia may have different characteristics compared with noncystic high-grade dysplasia.

Prevalence of pancreatic cystic lesions detected by magnetic resonance imaging in the Chinese population

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Incidental pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are being diagnosed more frequently. However, little is known about the prevalence of PCLs in the Chinese population. The aim of the study was to assess the crude prevalence of PCLs in individuals who underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

Data from consecutive patients who underwent MRI without pancreatic indications were included. MRI images were reviewed for the presence of pancreatic cysts. The prevalence of PCLs and high-risk PCLs in different gender and age groups was calculated. To assess the crude prevalence, the prevalence and demographic data were standardized on the basis of Chinese national population data in 2017.

RESULTS

A total of 10 987 individuals were included (7344 men). Incidental PCLs were identified in 212 individual (128 men). The prevalence of PCLs was 1.93%, and PCLs were more often discovered in women (1.74% vs 2.31%, P = 0.043). Prevalence increased with age (r = 0.804, P < 0.001). The prevalence of high-risk PCLs was 0.12% (n = 13). Gender predominance and age distribution showed no difference between high-risk PCLs and low-risk PCLs (P = 0.234 and P = 0.855), but cysts located in the pancreatic head were more likely to develop into high-risk PCLs (P = 0.001). After data standardization, the crude prevalence of PCLs was 1.31%, and PCLs were more often discovered in women (1.11% vs 1.5%, P < 0.001). The crude prevalence of high-risk PCLs was 0.07%.

CONCLUSION

Pancreatic cystic lesions in the Chinese population are not rare. The prevalence of PCLs increased with age and is higher in the female population. The prevalence of high-risk PCLs should not be ignored.

The Surveillance Patterns of Incidentally Detected Pancreatic Cysts Vary Widely and Infrequently Adhere to Guidelines

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to determine incidental pancreatic cyst ("cyst") surveillance patterns, predictors of receiving surveillance, and guideline adherence.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients receiving longitudinal care at a single tertiary care center with a newly diagnosed incidental pancreatic cyst over a 2-year period (2010-2011). All follow-up care was abstracted over a 5-year period.

RESULTS

Of 3241 eligible imaging studies reviewed, 100 patients with newly diagnosed incidental cysts eligible for surveillance were identified. A majority (53%) received no follow-up. We identified 4 predictors of cyst surveillance: radiology report conclusion mentioning the cyst (odds ratio [OR], 14.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.9-119) and recommending follow-up (OR, 5.5; 95% CI, 2.1-13.9), pancreas main duct dilation (OR, 10.7; 95% CI, 1.3-89), and absence of multiple cysts (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.1-10.0). Of the 47 patients who received surveillance, 66% met minimum surveillance imaging intervals of at least one guideline. Conversely, 21% of patients met the criteria for overutilization in at least one guideline.

CONCLUSIONS

Although guidelines recommend that surgically fit patients with incidental cysts undergo surveillance, most patients receive no follow-up. When follow-up occurs, surveillance patterns vary widely and infrequently conform to guidelines. Interventions to reduce care variation require study.

Integrated targeted metabolomic and lipidomic analysis: A novel approach to classifying early cystic precursors to invasive pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCNs) are a highly prevalent disease of the pancreas. Among PCNs, Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms (IPMNs) are common lesions that may progress from low-grade dysplasia (LGD) through high-grade dysplasia (HGD) to invasive cancer. Accurate discrimination of IPMN-associated neoplastic grade is an unmet clinical need. Targeted (semi)quantitative analysis of 100 metabolites and >1000 lipid species were performed on peri-operative pancreatic cyst fluid and pre-operative plasma from IPMN and serous cystic neoplasm (SCN) patients in a pancreas resection cohort (n = 35). Profiles were correlated against histological diagnosis and clinical parameters after correction for confounding factors. Integrated data modeling was used for group classification and selection of the best explanatory molecules. Over 1000 different compounds were identified in plasma and cyst fluid. IPMN profiles showed significant lipid pathway alterations compared to SCN. Integrated data modeling discriminated between IPMN and SCN with 100% accuracy and distinguished IPMN LGD or IPMN HGD and invasive cancer with up to 90.06% accuracy. Free fatty acids, ceramides, and triacylglycerol classes in plasma correlated with circulating levels of CA19-9, albumin and bilirubin. Integrated metabolomic and lipidomic analysis of plasma or cyst fluid can improve discrimination of IPMN from SCN and within PMNs predict the grade of dysplasia.

Difference analysis in prevalence of incidental pancreatic cystic lesions between computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging

Background

The purpose was to investigate the difference of detection rate of incidental pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) with computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to compare the difference between CT and MRI and to explore the effect of this difference on surgical resection.

Methods

We reviewed the diagnostic reports for incidental PCLs between 2013 and 2016. Images of PCLs would be re-evaluated. Clinical and imaging data were recorded. The chi-square and independent t-test were conducted for categorical and continuous variables.

Results

The prevalence of PCLs was 1.91% (1038/54210) and 3.36% (1282/38099) on CT and MRI respectively, and increased with increasing age (P < 0.001). No significant differences were found in the annual prevalence of PCLs on CT (P = 0.796) and MRI (P = 0.213) from 2013 to 2016 while the number of examinations was increasing every year. The annual detection rate of MRI for small PCLs (< 20 mm) was significantly higher than CT (P < 0.001), but was not significantly different for large PCLs (≥20 mm). The rate of surgical resection of PCLs (≥20 mm) in MRI group was higher than CT (55.2% vs. 37.0%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The detection rate of PCLs on CT and MRI tended to be stable despite increasing scan volumes. Female had a slightly more frequency of PCLs than male. MRI detected more small PCLs(< 20 mm) and had higher impact on surgical resection of large PCL(≥20 mm) compared with CT.

Early Detection of Pancreatic Cancer: Opportunities and Challenges

Most patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) present with symptomatic, surgically unresectable disease. Although the goal of early detection of PDAC is laudable and likely to result in significant improvement in overall survival, the relatively low prevalence of PDAC renders general population screening infeasible. The challenges of early detection include identification of at-risk individuals in the general population who would benefit from longitudinal surveillance programs and appropriate biomarker and imaging-based modalities used for PDAC surveillance in such cohorts. In recent years, various subgroups at higher-than-average risk for PDAC have been identified, including those with familial risk due to germline mutations, a history of pancreatitis, patients with mucinous pancreatic cysts, and elderly patients with new-onset diabetes. The last 2 categories are discussed at length in terms of the opportunities and challenges they present for PDAC early detection. We also discuss current and emerging imaging modalities that are critical to identifying early, potentially curable PDAC in high-risk cohorts on surveillance.

Testing for Verification Bias in Reported Malignancy Risks for Side-Branch Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms: A Simulation Modeling Approach

OBJECTIVE

The objective of our study was to test for the possibility that published malignancy risks for side-branch intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are overestimates, likely due to verification bias.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We tested for possible verification bias using simulation modeling techniques. First, in age-defined hypothetical cohorts of 10 million persons, we projected the frequency of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) arising from side-branch IPMNs over 5 years using published estimates of their prevalence (4.4%) and rate of malignant transformation (1.9%). Second, we projected the total number of PDAC cases in corresponding cohorts over the same time horizon using national cancer registry data. For each cohort, we determined whether the percentage of all PDAC cases that arose from side-branch IPMNs (i.e., side-branch IPMN-associated PDAC cases) was clinically plausible using an upper limit of 10% to define plausibility, as estimated from the literature. Model assumptions and parameter uncertainty were evaluated in sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

Across all cohorts, percentages of side-branch IPMN-associated PDACs greatly exceeded 10%. In the base case (mean age = 55.7 years), 80% of PDAC cases arose from side-branch IPMNs (7877/9786). In the oldest cohort evaluated (mean age = 75 years), this estimate was 76% (14,227/18,714). In a secondary analysis, we found that if an upper limit threshold of 10% for side-branch IPMN-associated PDAC was imposed, the model-predicted rate of malignancy for side-branch IPMNs would be less than 0.24% over a 5-year time horizon, substantially lower than most literature-based estimates.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that reported malignancy risks associated with side-branch IPMNs are likely to be overestimates and imply the presence of verification bias.

What should be known prior to performing EUS?

Direct referral of patients for EUS – instead of preprocedural consultation with the endosonographer – has become standard practice (like for other endoscopic procedures) as it is time- and cost-effective. To ensure appropriate indications and safe examinations, the endosonographer should carefully consider what information is needed before accepting the referral. This includes important clinical data regarding relevant comorbidities, the fitness of the patient to consent and undergo the procedure, and the anticoagulation status. In addition, relevant findings from other imaging methods to clarify the clinical question may be necessary. Appropriate knowledge and management of the patients’ anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy, antibiotic prophylaxis, and sedation issues can avoid unnecessary delays and unsafe procedures. Insisting on optimal preparation, appropriate indications, and clear clinical referral questions will increase the quality of the outcomes of EUS. In this paper, important practical issues regarding EUS preparations are raised and discussed from different points of view.

Prevalence of Asymptomatic Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms in Healthy and Ill Populations Detected by Ultrasonography: A Single-Center Study of 6353 Outpatients

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) without and with high-risk stigmata (HRS)/worrisome features (WF) and the epidemiologic association between IPMNs and other diseases.

METHODS

Ultrasound examinations of outpatients were evaluated. The IPMN was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The prevalence of IPMNs and HRS/WF IPMNs was calculated. The association between IPMNs and other diseases was studied.

RESULTS

The prevalence rate of IPMNs was 3.4%. A total of 1,531,264 IPMNs were expected in Italian population (2.5%), whereas 2257 per 100,000 citizens (2.3%) were expected in the European standard population (ESP2013). The prevalence rates of HRS/WF IPMNs were 0.5%, 0.7%, and 0.6%, in our, the Italian, and the ESP2013 populations, respectively. A total of 432,881 and 620 HRS/WF IPMNs per 100,000 residents were expected in the Italian and the ESP2013 populations, respectively. The IPMN prevalence increased over 50 years of age (odds ratio [OR], 3.2; P < 0.001) and over 70 years of age (OR, 1.9; P < 0.001). Female sex was related to the presence of IPMNs (OR, 1.9; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms had a high prevalence in asymptomatic nonhospitalized populations. Age older than 50 years identified a possible risk category.

Identification of Cystic Lesions by Secondary Screening of Familial Pancreatic Cancer (FPC) Kindreds Is Not Associated with the Stratified Risk of Cancer

OBJECTIVES

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are associated with risk of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). It is unclear if an IPMN in individuals at high risk of PDAC should be considered as a positive screening result or as an incidental finding. Stratified familial pancreatic cancer (FPC) populations were used to determine if IPMN risk is linked to familial risk of PDAC.

METHODS

This is a cohort study of 321 individuals from 258 kindreds suspected of being FPC and undergoing secondary screening for PDAC through the European Registry of Hereditary Pancreatitis and Familial Pancreatic Cancer (EUROPAC). Computerised tomography, endoscopic ultrasound of the pancreas and magnetic resonance imaging were used. The risk of being a carrier of a dominant mutation predisposing to pancreatic cancer was stratified into three even categories (low, medium and high) based on: Mendelian probability, the number of PDAC cases and the number of people at risk in a kindred.

RESULTS

There was a median (interquartile range (IQR)) follow-up of 2 (0-5) years and a median (IQR) number of investigations per participant of 4 (2-6). One PDAC, two low-grade neuroendocrine tumours and 41 cystic lesions were identified, including 23 IPMN (22 branch-duct (BD)). The PDAC case occurred in the top 10% of risk, and the BD-IPMN cases were evenly distributed amongst risk categories: low (6/107), medium (10/107) and high (6/107) (P = 0.63).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of finding BD-IPMN was independent of genetic predisposition and so they should be managed according to guidelines for incidental finding of IPMN.

Systematic review and meta-analysis: Prevalence of incidentally detected pancreatic cystic lesions in asymptomatic individuals

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are frequent incidental findings. As most PCLs require costly diagnostic evaluation and active surveillance, it is important to clarify their prevalence in asymptomatic individuals. We therefore aimed at performing a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine it.

METHODS

a systematic search was conducted and studies meeting inclusion criteria were included. The prevalence of PCLs was pooled across studies. A random effect model was used with assessment of heterogeneity.

RESULTS

17 studies, with 48,860 patients, were included. Only 3 were prospective; 5 studies were conducted in the US, 7 in Europe, 4 in Asia and 1 in Brazil. The pooled prevalence of PCLs was 8% (95% CI 4-14) with considerable heterogeneity (I² = 99.5%). This prevalence was higher in studies of higher quality, examining older subjects, smaller cohorts, and employing MRCP (24.8% vs 2.7% with CT-scan). The pooled rate of PCLs was four times higher in studies conducted in the US than in Asia (12.6% vs 3.1%). 7 studies reported the prevalence of mucinous lesions, with a pooled rate of 4.3% (95% CI 2-10; I² = 99.2%), but of 0.7% only for worrisome features or high risk stigmata.

CONCLUSION

The rate of incidentally detected PCLs is of 8%. Mucinous lesions are the most common incidentally detected PCLs, although they rarely present with potential indication for surgery. The observed different rates in the US and other geographic Areas suggest that different protocols might be necessary to help balancing costs and effectiveness of follow-up investigations in asymptomatic subjects.

A novel endoscopic ultrasound-guided through-the-needle microbiopsy procedure improves diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cystic lesions represent a diagnostic dilemma as some may harbor malignancy or have potential for malignant transformation. The aim of this study was to present our experience with a novel endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided microbiopsy procedure enabling procurement of tissue from the wall of the cystic lesion.

METHODS

We collected data from 31 consecutive patients with pancreatic cystic lesions who underwent an EUS-guided microbiopsy procedure at our institution. Records were retrospectively reviewed from a prospectively maintained database.

RESULTS

The technical success was 87.1 %. Diagnostic yield of microbiopsies was 71.0 %. Microbiopsies offered sufficient tissue for morphological and immunohistochemical characterization of the lesions, as well as determination of grade of dysplasia. Furthermore, evaluation of microbiopsies changed the clinical management in six patients (19.4 %). Three nonsevere adverse events were observed (9.7 %): two cases of mild infection and one case of mild pancreatitis. All three patients recovered completely.

CONCLUSIONS

EUS-guided microbiopsy procedure was technically feasible, with a high diagnostic yield. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these promising results.

Next generation sequencing of the cellular and liquid fraction of pancreatic cyst fluid supports discrimination of IPMN from pseudocysts and reveals cases with multiple mutated driver clones: First findings from the prospective ZYSTEUS biomarker study

Approximately half of all pancreatic cysts are neoplastic, mainly comprising intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN), which can progress to invasive carcinoma. Current Fukuoka guidelines have limited sensitivity and specificity in predicting progression of asymptomatic pancreatic cysts. We present first results of the prospective ZYSTEUS biomarker study investigating (i) whether detection of driver mutations in IPMN by liquid biopsy is technically feasible, (ii) which compartment of IPMN is most suitable for analysis, and (iii) implications for clinical diagnostics. Twenty-two patients with clinical inclusion criteria were enrolled in ZYSTEUS. Fifteen cases underwent endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided fine-needle aspiration and cytological diagnostics. Cellular and liquid fraction of the cysts of each case were separated and subjected to deep targeted next generation sequencing (NGS). Clinical parameters, imaging findings (EUS and MRI), and follow-up data were collected continuously. All IPMN cases (n = 12) showed at least one mutation in either KRAS (n = 11) or GNAS (n = 4). Three cases showed both KRAS and GNAS mutations. Six cases harbored multiple KRAS/GNAS mutations. In the three cases with pseudocysts, no KRAS or GNAS mutations were detected. DNA yields were higher and showed higher mutation diversity in the cellular fraction. In conclusion, mutation detection in pancreatic cyst fluid is technically feasible with more robust results in the cellular than in the liquid fraction. Current results suggest that, together with imaging, targeted sequencing supports discrimination of IPMN from pseudocysts. The prospective design of ZYSTEUS will provide insight into diagnostic value of NGS in preoperative risk stratification. Our data provide evidence for an oligoclonal nature of IPMN.

Clinical Impact of KRAS and GNAS Analysis Added to CEA and Cytology in Pancreatic Cystic Fluid Obtained by EUS-FNA

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cysts are common incidental findings with malignant potential, raising diagnostic and treatment dilemmas.

AIMS

To determine the added value of KRAS and GNAS mutation analysis on cyst classification and decision making.

METHODS

We analyzed 52 frozen samples of pancreatic cystic fluid obtained by EUS-FNA between 2008 and 2014. In addition to cytology and CEA, mutations of GNAS (exons 8 and 9) and KRAS (exons 2 and 3) genes were analyzed using Sanger sequencing.

RESULTS

There were 52 patients, 67% females, with a mean age of 59 ± 15 years (29-91). Cysts were classified as mucinous in 21 patients (40%) (14 low-risk, seven malignant) and non-mucinous in 31 patients (60%). After EUS-FNA, 11 patients had surgery, six had chemotherapy or palliation, one had endoscopic drainage, and 34 are on follow-up after a mean of 57 months. KRAS mutation was detected in nine and GNAS in two samples. Patients harboring cysts with KRAS mutations were older (p = 0.01), cysts were more commonly mucinous (p = 0.001) and malignant (p = 0.01). KRAS mutations were present in both low-risk and malignant mucinous lesions. For identifying mucinous lesions, CEA > 192 ng/mL performed better (AUC ROC = 93%), whereas for malignant/high-risk mucinous lesions, EUS imaging had the best accuracy (AUC ROC = 88%). After molecular analysis, a modification in cyst classification occurred in ten patients, but was correct in only two, a pseudocyst re-classified as IPMN and a malignant cyst as a non-mucinous cyst.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort of patients with pancreatic cysts, KRAS and GNAS mutations had no significant diagnostic benefit in comparison with conventional testing.

Management Algorithm for Cystic Pancreatic Lesions

Cystic pancreatic lesions are common findings in an aging society due to an increasing availability of high-resolution cross-sectional imaging. Although the overall prevalence of malignancy and the rate of malignant conversion are low, especially mucinous pancreatic cystic lesions such as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm and mucinous cystic neoplasm harbor significant malignant potential depending on their morphology and size. Recently updated guidelines recommend sophisticated algorithms for initial workup and surveillance based on individual characteristics of the cystic lesion and the patient, thus weighing the lifetime risk for malignancy against the adverse event rate of potentially curative surgery in the light of number and location of cystic lesions, age of the patient, comorbidities, and the resulting life expectancy as well as the effect of repeated follow-up examinations on the patient's quality of life. This article summarizes recommendations from available guidelines and proposes a pragmatic approach to the clinical management of pancreatic cystic lesions.

European evidence-based guidelines on pancreatic cystic neoplasms

Evidence-based guidelines on the management of pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCN) are lacking. This guideline is a joint initiative of the European Study Group on Cystic Tumours of the Pancreas, United European Gastroenterology, European Pancreatic Club, European-African Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association, European Digestive Surgery, and the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. It replaces the 2013 European consensus statement guidelines on PCN. European and non-European experts performed systematic reviews and used GRADE methodology to answer relevant clinical questions on nine topics (biomarkers, radiology, endoscopy, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN), mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN), serous cystic neoplasm, rare cysts, (neo)adjuvant treatment, and pathology). Recommendations include conservative management, relative and absolute indications for surgery. A conservative approach is recommended for asymptomatic MCN and IPMN measuring <40 mm without an enhancing nodule. Relative indications for surgery in IPMN include a main pancreatic duct (MPD) diameter between 5 and 9.9 mm or a cyst diameter ≥40 mm. Absolute indications for surgery in IPMN, due to the high-risk of malignant transformation, include jaundice, an enhancing mural nodule >5 mm, and MPD diameter >10 mm. Lifelong follow-up of IPMN is recommended in patients who are fit for surgery. The European evidence-based guidelines on PCN aim to improve the diagnosis and management of PCN.

Pancreatic cystic neoplasms: What is the most cost-effective follow-up strategy?

Pancreatic cystic neoplasms are one of the most frequent incidental findings in the field of pancreatic diseases, estimated to be present in up to 45% of the general population. They represent an heterogeneous group of tumors with different biological behavior and variable risk of progression to malignancy. While serous cystadenomas (SCAs) have no risk of malignant progression, mucinous cyst adenoma are malignant in 20% of cases and this risk is higher in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN). Nonsurgical management could be applied in patients with a SCA and in low-risk IPMN and these patients could be managed with follow-up strategies. While follow-up could be interrupted in patients unfit for surgery due to comorbidities or age, and in SCA stable over time, recent evidences do not support surveillance discontinuation in patients with IPMNs fit for surgery.