Incidental pancreatic cysts: do we really know what we are watching?

Surveillance for Presumed BD-IPMN of the Pancreas: Stability, Size, and Age Identify Targets for Discontinuation

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Currently, most patients with branch duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (BD-IPMN) are offered indefinite surveillance, resulting in health care costs with questionable benefits regarding cancer prevention. This study sought to identify patients in whom the risk of cancer is equivalent to an age-matched population, thereby justifying discontinuation of surveillance.

METHODS

International multicenter study involving presumed BD-IPMN without worrisome features (WFs) or high-risk stigmata (HRS) at diagnosis who underwent surveillance. Clusters of individuals at risk for cancer development were defined according to cyst size and stability for at least 5 years, and age-matched controls were used for comparison using standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) for pancreatic cancer.

RESULTS

Of 3844 patients with presumed BD-IPMN, 775 (20.2%) developed WFs and 68 (1.8%) HRS after a median surveillance of 53 (interquartile range 53) months. Some 164 patients (4.3%) underwent surgery. Of the overall cohort, 1617 patients (42%) remained stable without developing WFs or HRS for at least 5 years. In patients 75 years or older, the SIR was 1.12 (95% CI, 0.23-3.39), and in patients 65 years or older with stable lesions smaller than 15 mm in diameter after 5 years, the SIR was 0.95 (95% CI, 0.11-3.42). The all-cause mortality for patients who did not develop WFs or HRS for at least 5 years was 4.9% (n = 79), and the disease-specific mortality was 0.3% (n = 5).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of developing pancreatic malignancy in presumed BD-IPMN without WFs or HRS after 5 years of surveillance is comparable to that of the general population depending on cyst size and patient age. Surveillance discontinuation could be justified after 5 years of stability in patients older than 75 years with cysts <30 mm, and in patients 65 years or older who have cysts ≤15 mm.

Screening of Exosome-Derived Proteins and Their Potential as Biomarkers in Diagnostic and Prognostic for Pancreatic Cancer

In the oncological area, pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal diseases, with 5-year survival rising just 10% in high-development countries. This disease is genetically characterized by KRAS as a driven mutation followed by SMAD4, CDKN2, and TP53-associated mutations. In clinical aspects, pancreatic cancer presents unspecific clinical symptoms with the absence of screening and early plasmatic biomarker, being that CA19-9 is the unique plasmatic biomarker having specificity and sensitivity limitations. We analyzed the plasmatic exosome proteomic profile of 23 patients with pancreatic cancer and 10 healthy controls by using Nanoscale liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (NanoLC-MS/MS). The pancreatic cancer patients were subdivided into IPMN and PDAC. Our findings show 33, 34, and 7 differentially expressed proteins when comparing the IPMN vs. control, PDAC-No treatment vs. control, and PDAC-No treatment vs. IPMN groups, highlighting proteins of the complement system and coagulation, such as C3, APOB, and SERPINA. Additionally, PDAC with no treatment showed 11 differentially expressed proteins when compared to Folfirinox neoadjuvant therapy or Gemcitabine adjuvant therapy. So here, we found plasmatic exosome-derived differentially expressed proteins among cancer patients (IPMN, PDAC) when comparing with healthy controls, which could represent alternative biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic evaluation, supporting further scientific and clinical studies on pancreatic cancer.

Risk Models for Pancreatic Cyst Diagnosis

The overall prevalence of pancreatic cysts (PCs) is high in the general population. In clinical practice PCs are often incidentally discovered and are classified into benign, premalignant, and malignant lesions according to the World Health Organization. For this reason, in the absence of reliable biomarkers, to date clinical decision-making relies mostly on risk models based on morphological features. The aim of this narrative review is to present the current knowledge regarding PC's morphologic features with related estimated risk of malignancy and discuss available diagnostic tools to minimize clinically relevant diagnostic errors.

CYSTIC PANCREATIC LESIONS: IMAGING VERSUS ANATOMOPATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS-HOW TO IMPROVE DIAGNOSTIC ACCURACY?

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cystic lesions are a group of pancreatic neoplasms with different behavior and risk of malignancy. Imaging diagnosis and differentiation of these lesions remain a challenge.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the agreement between computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging and post-operative pathologic diagnoses of Pancreatic cystic lesions in a University Hospital of São Paulo State.

METHODS

A total of 39 patients with surgically diagnosed Pancreatic cystic lesions were enrolled, as a study cohort from 2009 to 2019. Preoperative radiological and final pathological diagnosis was correlated to measure computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging diagnostic. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma, choledochal pancreatic cyst, mucinous cystadenoma, serous cystadenoma, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, and pancreatic pseudocyst were classified as neoplastic cysts.

RESULTS

It was noted that 27 patients (69.23%) had preoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, 11 patients (28.20%) had preoperative computed tomography only, and 1 patient had preoperative magnetic resonance imaging only. The values for diagnoses made only with computed tomography (p=0.47) and from the combination of computed tomography+magnetic resonance imaging (p=0.50) did also point to moderate agreement with the anatomopathological findings. The values pointed to a fair agreement for the diagnosis of mucinous cystadenoma (p=0.3), moderate agreement for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (p= 0.41), good agreement for serous cystadenoma (p=0.79), and excellent agreement for choledochal pancreatic cyst (p=1), pancreatic pseudocyst (p=0.84), and Frantz tumor (p=1) (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging have an equivalent diagnostic agreement with an anatomopathological diagnosis for differentiating benign from malignant Pancreatic cystic lesions and in suggesting a specific diagnosis. There is no statistical difference between the use of computed tomography alone and computed tomography+magnetic resonance imaging in the improvement of diagnostic accuracy.

Surgery for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms in young patients: High-risk population

BACKGROUND

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas are uncommon in young individuals. Management of these patients is challenging because the risk of malignancy and recurrence after surgery remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to assess the long-term risk for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm recurrence after surgery for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms in patients ≤50 years of age.

METHODS

Perioperative and long-term follow-up data of patients who had undergone surgery for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms between 2004 and 2020 were extracted from a prospective unicentric database and retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Seventy-eight patients underwent surgical treatment for benign intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (low-grade n = 22 and intermediate-grade n = 21) and malignant intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (high-grade n = 16 and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm-associated carcinoma n = 19). Severe postoperative morbidity (Clavien-Dindo ≥III) was found in 14 patients (18%). The median length of hospital stay was 10 days. No perioperative mortality was observed. The median length of follow-up was 72 months. Recurrence of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm-associated carcinoma was found in 6 patients (19%) with malignant intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm and 1 patient (3%) with benign intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm.

CONCLUSION

Surgery for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm is safe and can be performed with low morbidity and potentially no mortality in young patients. Given the high rate of malignancy (45%), these patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms represent a high-risk population, and prophylactic surgical treatment should be considered in these patients with long life expectancies. Regular clinical and radiologic follow-up examinations are important to rule out disease recurrence, which is high, especially in patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm-associated carcinoma.

"Evolving Trends in Pancreatic Cystic Tumors: A 3-Decade Single-Center Experience With 1290 Resections"

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe our institutional experience with resected cystic tumors of the pancreas with emphasis on changes in clinical presentation and accuracy of preoperative diagnosis.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

Incidental discovery of pancreatic cystic lesions has increased and has led to a rise in pancreatic resections. It is important to analyze surgical outcomes from these procedures, and the prevalence of malignancy, pre-malignancy and resections for purely benign lesions, some of which may be unintended.

METHODS

Retrospective review of a prospective database spanning 3 decades. Presence of symptoms, incidental discovery, diagnostic studies, type of surgery, postoperative outcomes, and concordance between presumptive diagnosis and final histopathology were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 1290 patients were identified, 62% female with mean age of 60 years. Fifty-seven percent of tumors were incidentally discovered. Ninety-day operative mortality was 0.9% and major morbidity 14.4%. There were 23 different diagnosis, but IPMN, MCN, and serous cystadenoma comprised 80% of cases. Concordance between preoperative and final histopathological diagnosis increased by decade from 45%, to 68%, and is presently 80%, rising in parallel with the use of endoscopic ultrasound, cytology, and molecular analysis. The addition of molecular analysis improved accuracy to 91%. Of misdiagnosed cases, half were purely benign and taken to surgery with the presumption of malignancy or premalignancy. The majority of these were serous cystadenomas.

CONCLUSIONS

Indications and diagnostic work-up of cystic tumors of the pancreas have changed over time. Surgical resection can be performed with very low mortality and acceptable morbidity and diagnostic accuracy is presently 80%. About 10% of patients are still undergoing surgery for purely benign lesions that were presumed to be malignant or premalignant. Further refinements in diagnostic tests are required to improve accuracy.

Pancreatic Cystic Tumors: A Single-Center Observational Study

Background and Objectives: The aim of the study was to analyze the prevalence and characteristics of pancreatic cystic tumors (PCTs). Material and Methods: A retrospective analysis of the medical records of 124 patients, 102 (69%) women and 46 (31%) men, who had undergone surgery for pancreatic cystic tumors in 2014-2018. Among 148 pancreatic cysts, 24 (16%) were non-neoplasmatic and 124 (84%) were neoplasmatic. The neoplasmatic cysts (n = 124) were included in our analysis. There were five main types of PCTs: IPMN (intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm) (n = 45), MCN (mucinous cystic neoplasm) (n = 30), SCN (serous cystic neoplasm) (n = 28), SPN (solid pseudopapillary neoplasm) (n = 8), and CPEN (cystic pancreatic endocrine neoplasm) (n = 8), as well as mixed-type tumors (n = 5). Results: A statistically significant dependency between PCT type and age was proven (p= 0.0001): IPMNs were observed in the older group of patients with an average age of 66.12 (40-79) years while SPNs were noted in the youngest group of patients with an average age of 36.22 (22-55) years. A statistically significant association between PCT type and gender (p = 0.0001) was found: IPMNs occurred among 24 (53.33%) men and 21 (46.6%) women. In the MCN and SPN groups, all patients were female (100%). Among the SCN group, the majority were women (27 (96.43%)), and there was only 1 (3.57%) man. A statistically significant dependency between PCT type and size was proven (p = 0.0007). The mean size of IPMNs was the smallest 2.95 (0.6-10 cm) and the mean size of MCNs was the largest 6.78 (1.5-19 cm). A statistically significant dependency between PCT type and tumor location was proven (p = 0.000238). The most frequent location of IPMN was the pancreatic head: 27 (60%). MCN was most frequently located in the pancreatic tail (18 (60%)). Most (10/28) SCNs were found in the pancreatic tail (10 (35.71%)). CPENs were most frequently located in the pancreatic tail (three (37.5%)) and pancreatic body and tail (three (37.5%)). SPNs were located commonly in the pancreatic head (five (62.5%)). The type of surgery depended on the tumor location. The most frequent surgery for IPMNs was pancreatoduodenectomy (44.4%), while for MCNs and SCNs, it was distal pancreatectomy (81%). The postoperative morbidity and mortality were 34.68% and 1.61%, respectively. Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) was the most frequent (29%) complication. Conclusions: IPMN was the most frequent resected PCT in our material. A statistically significant association between the type of cyst and location within the pancreas, size, local lymph node involvement, and patient's age and sex was proved. POPF was the most frequent postoperative complication. In patients with PCTs, due to substantial postoperative morbidity, adequate patient selection, considering both the surgical risk as well as the long-term risk of malignant transformation, is very important during qualification for surgery.

Improving diagnostic accuracy and appropriate indications for surgery in pancreatic cystic neoplasms: the role of EUS

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCNs) represent a difficult preoperative diagnosis despite improvements in imaging. In this study, we compared preoperative and final pathologic diagnosis in a large cohort of resected PCNs, evaluating diagnostic accuracy with a specific focus on the value of EUS.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients undergoing resection between 2009 and 2019 for presumed PCNs was performed. Preoperative workup was reviewed by analyzing the role of imaging and EUS. Patients with a benign histology who did not show absolute indication were categorized as "delayable surgery."

RESULTS

Of 585 patients who were retrospectively analyzed, in 108 (18.5%) final histology did not confirm preoperative diagnosis. EUS was associated with a lower rate of incorrect diagnosis (16%; P = .03), but the risk of overtreatment was similar regardless of instrumental diagnostic path (33/131 vs 68/328, P = .298). Dilatation of the main pancreatic duct and cytologic sampling were the only variables independently associated with a correct diagnosis (P < .001 and P = .041, respectively). Based on clinical presentation and final histology, pancreatic resection could have been spared or delayed in 101 of 459 patients (22%), and this was influenced by age (odds ratio [OR], .97; P = .002), cyst larger than 30 mm (OR, 1.89; P = .005), and type of operation (OR, 3.46 [P < .001] and 3.18 [P = .023] for distal pancreatectomies and other resections, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The overall risk of unnecessary immediate surgery for PCNs is about 22% in a high-volume referral center. EUS with cytologic sampling is a useful procedure in the diagnostic management of PCNs, improving their diagnostic accuracy.

Enucleation for low-grade branch duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms: Long-term follow-up

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic enucleation allows resection of branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms with full parenchyma preservation. The aim of this study was to assess intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms recurrence and functional outcomes during long-term follow-up after enucleation.

METHODS

Patient characteristics, as well as radiologic and clinicopathologic follow-up data of patients who underwent enucleation for branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms between 2004 and 2014, were analyzed. Quality of life was assessed using the EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-PAN26 questionnaires.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients underwent enucleation for low-grade branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms in 71 and high-grade branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms in 3 patients. Long-term follow-up data were available for 66 patients (89%; median follow-up: 87 months). Radiologic imaging (n = 56) showed intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm recurrence in 10 patients (18%) including local recurrence at the site of enucleation in 3 patients (5%) and new onset intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms manifestation in 7 patients (13%) at a distant site in the pancreatic remnant. Four patients (6%) underwent reoperation. Two of these patients had intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm-associated carcinoma, one of them at the enucleation site. During the follow-up period, no intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm-related deaths occurred and no new onsets of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus were observed. QLQ-C30 revealed a global health status of 66.0% and overall functioning and symptom scores of 81.0% and 22.8%, respectively. Additionally, QLQ-PAN26 showed an overall symptom score of 26.5%.

CONCLUSION

Enucleation is an organ-preserving surgical treatment option for low-grade branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms with low local recurrence risk and excellent functional long-term outcome. However, postoperative life-long follow-up must be performed as for any type of partial pancreatectomy for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms due to the risk of recurrence and potential malignancy.

Intracystic Glucose Levels Appear Useful for Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in the pancreatic cystic fluid is the most important biomarker for differentiating mucinous from non-mucinous pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs). However, recent studies have shown that glucose levels in pancreatic cystic fluid can discriminate mucinous from non-mucinous cysts.

AIMS

To perform a meta-analysis to determine the utility of intracystic fluid glucose of pancreatic mucinous cysts compared with intracystic CEA.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of the literature in the PubMed, OVID Medline, and Cochrane databases. This meta-analysis considers studies published up to October 2020.

RESULTS

Six studies comprising 506 patients were selected; 61.2% of the population was female. Of the 480 PCLs, 287 (59.7%) were mucinous. Pooled sensitivity and specificity of cystic fluid glucose levels for mucinous PCLs were 91% and 85%, respectively. The positive likelihood ratio (PLR) and negative likelihood ratio (NLR) were 6.33 and 0.11, respectively. Pooled diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) was 60.94. The pooled area under the summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve was 0.959. Pooled sensitivity and specificity of pancreatic cystic fluid CEA levels were 61% and 93%. The PLR and NLR were 8.51 and 0.40, respectively. Pooled DOR was 23.52, and the pooled area under the SROC curve was 0.861.

CONCLUSION

Glucose has become a useful method and appears to be better than CEA for differentiating between mucinous PCLs and non-mucinous PCLs. We suggest that the analysis of glucose in PCLs be routinely performed for the differential diagnosis of these lesions.

IPMN-associated pancreatic cancer: Survival, prognostic staging and impact of adjuvant chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN)-associated carcinoma is a subtype of pancreatic cancer for which prognostic factors, the validity of the AJCC/UICC staging system and the role of adjuvant chemotherapy remain unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Clinicopathological, treatment and follow-up data of patients with IPMN-associated carcinoma undergoing resection between 2002 and 2018 were analyzed. Uni- and multivariable survival analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors.

RESULTS

Of 424 patients undergoing resection for IPMN-associated carcinoma, 77% patients had pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (IPMN-PDAC) and 23% had colloid carcinoma (IPMN-CC). Compared to IPMN-CC, IPMN-PDAC was diagnosed at more advanced tumor stages, more frequently involved lymph nodes, more frequently showed poor differentiation and were associated with higher rates of R1 resections. Resected IPMN-PDAC showed markedly shorter median overall survival than IPMN-CC (26.7 months vs. 91.3 months). The current AJCC/UICC staging system was validated for IPMN-associated carcinoma and for both of its subtypes. In multivariable analysis age ≥70 years, diabetes mellitus, high levels of Ca 19-9, IPMN-PDAC subtype, G3 tumors and higher AJCC/UICC stage were independently associated with shorter survival. Adjuvant therapy was not associated with improved survival in IPMN-associated carcinoma. Overall survival was comparable in patients receiving vs. not receiving adjuvant therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Survival after resection of IPMN-associated carcinoma depends on tumor stage, on histologic tumor subtype, grading, and Ca 19-9 levels. The current 8th edition of the AJCC/UICC staging system is applicable for IPMN-associated carcinoma and for both of its subtypes IPMN-PDAC and IPMN-CC. The role of adjuvant therapy for IPMN-associated carcinoma remains unclear.

Translation of a Protease Turnover Assay for Clinical Discrimination of Mucinous Pancreatic Cysts

The classification of pancreatic cyst fluids can provide a basis for the early detection of pancreatic cancer while eliminating unnecessary procedures. A candidate biomarker, gastricsin (pepsin C), was found to be present in potentially malignant mucinous pancreatic cyst fluids. A gastricsin activity assay using a magnetic bead-based platform has been developed using immobilized peptide substrates selective for gastricsin bearing a dimeric rhodamine dye. The unique dye structure allows quantitation of enzyme-cleaved product by both fluorescence and surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The performance of this assay was compared with ELISA assays of pepsinogen C and the standard of care, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), in the same clinical sample cohort. A retrospective cohort of mucinous (n = 40) and non-mucinous (n = 29) classes of pancreatic cyst fluid samples were analyzed using the new protease activity assay. For both assay detection modes, successful differentiation of mucinous and non-mucinous cyst fluid was achieved using 1 µL clinical samples. The activity-based assays in combination with CEA exhibit optimal sensitivity and specificity of 87% and 93%, respectively. The use of this gastricsin activity assay requires a minimal volume of clinical specimen, offers a rapid assay time, and shows improvements in the differentiation of mucinous and non-mucinous cysts using an accurate standardized readout of product formation, all without interfering with the clinical standard of care.

[Pancreatic cystic space-occupying lesions-Diagnostics, treatment and follow-up care : Current recommendations taking the current German S3 guidelines on pancreatic cancer into account]

Due to their increased detection pancreatic cystic space-occupying lesions are becoming increasingly relevant in the clinical routine and represent a morphologically and biologically heterogeneous and thus clinically demanding as well as potentially (pre)malignant entity. As a result, recommendations for the diagnostics and treatment of pancreatic cystic tumors have now been incorporated into the current German S3 guidelines on pancreatic cancer. The diagnostics of pancreatic cystic space-occupying lesions are based on the following three elements: collection of relevant clinical information, performance of high-resolution imaging procedures and if diagnostic uncertainty persists, puncture diagnostics. Differentiated diagnostics are of essential importance as these represent the basis for an adequate treatment decision. Pancreatic cystic lesions with a relevant risk of malignant transformation, e.g., main duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN), followed by mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN), solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPN) and generally pancreatic cystic lesions with risk factors independent of the entity, should be resected, whereas a differentiated and individualized approach is necessary, especially for branch-duct IPMNs. The serous cystic neoplasms (SCN) have no malignant potential and do not require any treatment if they are asymptomatic. Important principles in surgery of pancreatic cancer, such as adequate surgical resection taking oncological standards into account and standardized appropriate histopathological processing of the specimens as well as intraoperative frozen section analysis also play an important role in pancreatic cystic space-occupying lesions. An annual follow-up seems to be meaningful, especially for IPMNs.

New and emerging technology in the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cysts

Pancreatic cysts have always presented as a diagnostic dilemma due to the difficulties in identifying patients with current imaging modalities that could most benefit from surgical intervention. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) and mucinous cystadenomas (MCNs) carry the highest malignant potential of all pancreatic cysts and pancreatic adenocarcinoma carries a high mortality as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. However, surgery to remove benign cysts also carries a high morbidity and occasional mortality. Opportunities to identify and reduce pre-cancer lesions must be aggressively pursued. Multidetector helical CT (MDHCT) or an up-to-date MRI is the first diagnostic tool to evaluate a suspected pancreatic lesion. Currently, review by a multidisciplinary group who specialize in pancreatic cysts and pancreatic cancer is advised to review factors such as a patient's comorbidities, the type of surgery needed to remove the cyst and the estimated morbidity and mortality associated with the procedure. Some recent data are emerging to assist with identifying those at highest risk such as cyst fluid analysis, laser endomicroscopy, and artificial intelligence (AI). This article reviews the current status, benefits, challenges and future prospects on diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cysts. Further prospective randomized control trials are needed to determine the optimal management and treatment for patients with pancreatic cysts.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of including contrast-enhanced ultrasound in management of pancreatic cystic neoplasms

PURPOSE

Pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCN) management consists of non-invasive imaging studies (CT, MRI), with a high resource burden. We aimed to determine the cost-effectiveness of including contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the management of PCN without risk features.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

By using a decision-tree model in a hypothetical cohort of patients, we compared management strategy including CEUS with the latest Fukuoka consensus, European and Italian guidelines. Our strategy for BD-IPMN/MCN < 1 cm includes 1 CEUS annually. For those between 1 and 2 cm, it includes CEUS 4 times/year during the first year, then 3 times/year for 4 years and then annually. For those between 2 and 3 cm, it comprises MRI twice/year during the first one, then alternating 2 CEUS and 1 MRI yearly.

RESULTS

CEUS surveillance is the dominant strategy in all scenarios. CEUS surveillance average cost is 1,984.72 €, mean QALY 11.79 and mean ICER 181.99 €. If willingness to pay is 30,000 €, 45% of patients undergone CEUS surveillance of BDIPMN/MCN < 1 cm would be within budget.

CONCLUSION

Guidelines strategies are very effective, but costs are relatively high from a policy perspective. CEUS surveillance may be a cost-effective strategy yielding a nearly high QALYs, an acceptable ICER, and a lower cost.

Multi-Phase CT-Based Radiomics Nomogram for Discrimination Between Pancreatic Serous Cystic Neoplasm From Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm

Purpose

This study aimed to develop and verify a multi-phase (MP) computed tomography (CT)-based radiomics nomogram to differentiate pancreatic serous cystic neoplasms (SCNs) from mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs), and to compare the diagnostic efficacy of radiomics models for different phases of CT scans.

Materials and Methods

A total of 170 patients who underwent surgical resection between January 2011 and December 2018, with pathologically confirmed pancreatic cystic neoplasms (SCN=115, MCN=55) were included in this single-center retrospective study. Radiomics features were extracted from plain scan (PS), arterial phase (AP), and venous phase (VP) CT scans. Algorithms were performed to identify the optimal features to build a radiomics signature (Radscore) for each phase. All features from these three phases were analyzed to develop the MP-Radscore. A combined model comprised the MP-Radscore and imaging features from which a nomogram was developed. The accuracy of the nomogram was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration tests, and decision curve analysis.

Results

For each scan phase, 1218 features were extracted, and the optimal ones were selected to construct the PS-Radscore (11 features), AP-Radscore (11 features), and VP-Radscore (12 features). The MP-Radscore (14 features) achieved better performance based on ROC curve analysis than any single phase did [area under the curve (AUC), training cohort: MP-Radscore 0.89, PS-Radscore 0.78, AP-Radscore 0.83, VP-Radscore 0.85; validation cohort: MP-Radscore 0.88, PS-Radscore 0.77, AP-Radscore 0.83, VP-Radscore 0.84]. The combination nomogram performance was excellent, surpassing those of all other nomograms in both the training cohort (AUC, 0.91) and validation cohort (AUC, 0.90). The nomogram also performed well in the calibration and decision curve analyses.

Conclusions

Radiomics for arterial and venous single-phase models outperformed the plain scan model. The combination nomogram that incorporated the MP-Radscore, tumor location, and cystic number had the best discriminatory performance and showed excellent accuracy for differentiating SCN from MCN.

Diagnostic Concordance and Preoperative Risk Factors for Malignancy in Pancreatic Mucinous Cystic Neoplasms

Background/Aims

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Pancreatic incidentalomas: Investigation and management

The incidence of pancreatic incidentalomas (PIs) detected in otherwise asymptomatic patients is growing with the increasing quality and use of advanced imaging techniques. PI can present as isolated main pancreatic duct dilation or as a solid or cystic lesion. Although historically thought to be relatively rare, PIs are rather common, particularly cystic lesions of the pancreas, which can be detected in up to 49% of the general population. With the poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer, PIs are an opportunity for prevention and early diagnosis, but when managed poorly, they can also lead to overtreatment and unnecessary morbidity. The management of PI should begin with a dedicated pancreas protocol computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to accurately characterize duct size, lesion characteristics and establish an accurate baseline for subsequent follow up. Diagnosis and subsequent management depends on the extent of main duct dilation and solid versus cystic appearance. Solid lesions are highly concerning for malignancy. Cystic lesions can be further categorized as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas (IPMNs) or mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs), both of which harbour malignant potential, or as serous cystic neoplasms (SCNs) that are benign. In this paper, we summarize the major challenges related to PI and present pragmatic suggestions for management.

Comparative analysis of glucose and carcinoembryonic antigen in the diagnosis of pancreatic mucinous cysts: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Pancreatic cystic fluid (PCF) analysis is useful to distinguish between different cyst types and to guide management. The aim of our study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of glucose level with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in PCF for mucinous cyst diagnosis.

METHODS

We identified studies with PCF obtained by EUS before surgery, with cysts classified as mucinous and nonmucinous according to surgical specimens. A random-effects model was used for quantitative meta-analysis. Pooled sensitivities, specificities, and summary receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were conducted.

RESULTS

For CEA, we included 31 studies with 5268 patients, of which 2083 were referred for surgery. For glucose, we included 4 studies with 345 patients, of which 275 were referred for surgery. Glucose performed better than CEA for mucinous cysts diagnosis (premalignant and malignant) with sensitivities of .90 (95% confidence interval [CI], .85-.94) and .67 (95% CI, .65-.70), specificities of .82 (95% CI, .72-.89) and .80 (95% CI, 0.76-0.83), and areas under the ROC curve of .96 and .79, respectively. Glucose had a higher sensitivity (90%), with uncommon false-negative results, making it an excellent biomarker to exclude a mucinous cyst. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the findings of the current meta-analysis are robust.

CONCLUSION

Glucose level in PCF is more accurate than CEA for preoperative diagnosis of mucinous cysts. It may become a useful first-line test, particularly in small cysts with a limited volume of PCF. Larger studies are awaited to confirm glucose as the single test for mucinous cyst diagnosis.

Progression vs Cyst Stability of Branch-Duct Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms After Observation and Surgery

Importance

The progression of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) of the pancreas to malignant disease is still poorly understood. Observational and surgical series have failed to provide comprehensive information.

Objective

To identify dynamic variables associated with the development of malignant neoplasms by combining pathological features with data from preoperative repeated observations.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Crossover Observational Multicentric Study included a retrospective cohort of patients with branch-duct IPMNs (BD IPMNs) enrolled in a surveillance program from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2019. Patients were enrolled from 5 referral centers: the Pancreas Institute, Verona, Italy; Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea; Singapore General Hospital, Singapore; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland; and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston. Patients underwent a minimum of 12 months of preoperative surveillance (median, 37 [interquartile range (IQR), 20-68] months).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Dynamic variables associated with malignant disease were explored to estimate the presence of high-grade dysplasia (HGD) and invasive cancer at final pathological examination.

Results

A total of 292 patients were included in the analysis (137 women [46.9%] and 155 men [53.1%]; median age, 64 [IQR, 56-71] years). During surveillance, 27 patients (9.2%) developed a worrisome feature after 5 years, and 46 of 276 (16.7%) developed high-risk stigmata (HRS). At final pathological evaluation, 107 patients (36.6%) had HGD or invasive cancer, and 16 (5.5%) had IPMNs with concomitant pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Rates of HGD and invasive cancer at pathological evaluation significantly differed between those without worrisome features and those developing HRS from a previous worrisome feature (9 [27.3%] vs 13 [61.9%]; P < .001). Developing an additional worrisome feature during surveillance (odds ratio [OR], 3.24 [95% CI, 1.38-7.60]; P = .007) or an HRS from a baseline worrisome feature (OR, 2.87 [95% CI, 1.01-8.17]; P = .048) was associated with HGD at final pathological evaluation. Among HRS, development of jaundice on a low-risk cyst was independently associated with invasive cancer (OR, 16.04 [95% CI, 2.94-87.40]; P = .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that in BD IPMNs under surveillance, harboring a stable worrisome feature carries the lowest risk of malignant disease. Development of additional worrisome features or HRS is associated with the presence of HGD, whereas the occurrence of jaundice is associated with invasive cancer.

Biomarker Risk Score Algorithm and Preoperative Stratification of Patients with Pancreatic Cystic Lesions

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cysts are incidentally detected in up to 13% of patients undergoing radiographic imaging. Of the most frequently encountered types, mucin-producing (mucinous) pancreatic cystic lesions may develop into pancreatic cancer, while nonmucinous ones have little or no malignant potential. Accurate preoperative diagnosis is critical for optimal management, but has been difficult to achieve, resulting in unnecessary major surgery. Here, we aim to develop an algorithm based on biomarker risk scores to improve risk stratification.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients undergoing surgery and/or surveillance for a pancreatic cystic lesion, with diagnostic imaging and banked pancreatic cyst fluid, were enrolled in the study after informed consent (n = 163 surgical, 67 surveillance). Cyst fluid biomarkers with high specificity for distinguishing nonmucinous from mucinous pancreatic cysts (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF], glucose, carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA], amylase, cytology, and DNA mutation) were selected. Biomarker risk scores were used to design an algorithm to predict preoperative diagnosis. Performance was tested using surgical (retrospective) and surveillance (prospective) cohorts.

RESULTS

In the surgical cohort, the biomarker algorithm outperformed the preoperative clinical diagnosis in correctly predicting the final pathologic diagnosis (91% vs 73%; p < 0.000001). Specifically, nonmucinous serous cystic neoplasms (SCN) and mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN) were correctly classified more frequently by the algorithm than clinical diagnosis (96% vs 30%; p < 0.000008 and 92% vs 69%; p = 0.04, respectively). In the surveillance cohort, the algorithm predicted a preoperative diagnosis with high confidence based on a high biomarker score and/or consistency with imaging from ≥1 follow-up visits.

CONCLUSIONS

A biomarker risk score-based algorithm was able to correctly classify pancreatic cysts preoperatively. Importantly, this tool may improve initial and dynamic risk stratification, reducing overdiagnosis and underdiagnosis.

The faith of non-surveilled pancreatic cysts: a bicentric retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Incidental discovery of pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCLs) is a common and steadily increasing occurrence. The aim of this study was to investigate a cohort of patients presenting with incidentally detected PCLs which were not included in a surveillance protocol, and to compare their risk of malignant evolution with that of systematically surveilled lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A population of PCLs which did not receive surveillance over a period >10 years (population A) was selected at the Medical University of Vienna. A group of "low risk" branch duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm ≤15 mm in size upon diagnosis undergoing a regular follow-up of at least 5 years at the University of Verona was selected as control (population B). The incidence of pancreatic cancer (PC), cumulative risk of PC and disease-specific survival were compared.

RESULTS

Overall, 376 patients with non-surveilled PCLs were included in study group A and compared to 299 patients in group B. This comparison resulted in similar incidence rates of PC (1.6% vs 1.7%, p = 0.938), a strong similarity in terms of disease-specific mortality rates (1.3% vs 0.3%, p = 0.171) and the 5- and 10-year cumulative risk of PC (≅ 1% and 2%, p = 0.589) and DSS (≅ 100% and 98%, p = 0.050).

CONCLUSION

The "price to pay" for a negligence-based policy in the population of non-surveilled PCLs was reasonable, and the incidence of PC was comparable to that reported for a population of low-risk cysts enrolled to a standardized surveillance protocol.

Actual malignancy risk of either operated or non-operated presumed mucinous cystic neoplasms of the pancreas under surveillance

BACKGROUND

Despite the low malignant potential of pancreatic mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs), surgery is still performed. The aim of this pragmatic study was to assess the outcome of surgery and surveillance for patients presenting with a presumed MCN at the first evaluation.

METHODS

Data for patients with a presumed MCN observed from 2000 to 2016 at the Verona Pancreas Institute and San Raffaele Hospital were extracted from prospective databases. The endpoints were risk of malignancy at pathology and rate of misdiagnosis for the surgical series, expressed as an odds ratio (OR) with 95 per cent confidence interval, and disease-specific survival (DSS) for the surveillance cohort investigated by the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

A total of 424 patients were identified. In the surgical series (229 patients), the rate of misdiagnosis was 19.2 per cent. The rate of malignant MCNs was 10.9 per cent (25 patients). The overall rate of malignancy, including misdiagnoses, was 11.3 per cent (26 patients). Predictors of malignancy were mural nodules (OR 27.75, 95 per cent c.i. 4.44-173.61; P < 0.001), size at least 50 mm (OR 13.39, 2.01 to 89.47; P = 0.007), and carbohydrate antigen 19.9 level (OR 3.98, 1.19 to 13.30; P = 0.025). In the absence of mural nodules and enhancing walls, none of the resected presumed MCNs smaller than 50 mm were malignant. Only patients with high-risk stigmata undergoing surgery experienced a significantly reduced 5-year DSS compared with all other patients (88 versus 100 per cent; P = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

Presumed MCNs with mural nodules, enhancing walls or cysts of 50 mm or larger should be considered for upfront surgical resection owing to the high risk of malignancy. In the absence of these features, the incidence of malignancy is negligible, favouring surveillance in selected patients given the low risk of malignancy and the high rate of misdiagnosis.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Pancreatic mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs) are well known preneoplastic lesions. Despite the low rate of cancer, lesions without radiological features of malignancy are resected systematically. In the absence of mural nodules, enhancing walls or cyst size 50 mm or more, the incidence of malignancy is negligible. Given the high risk of misdiagnosis, in the absence of such radiological features, surveillance of presumed MCNs seems safer.

A Rare Case of Pancreatic Endometriosis Masquerading as Pancreatic Mucinous Neoplasm

Endometriosis is a relatively common condition among women, and pancreatic endometriosis has been reported on rare occasions. Such pancreatic lesions are difficult to diagnose and distinguish from other cystic lesions of the pancreas preoperatively. This report describes a case of pancreatic endometriosis in a 51-year-old female patient. Imaging demonstrated an enlarging cyst with findings concerning for a mucinous neoplasm. The patient underwent robotic distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy. Histopathology revealed an endometriotic cyst. Pancreatic endometriosis can be difficult to distinguish from other lesions of the pancreas. Surgical resection should be undertaken in cases where malignancy is suspected.

Ductal Dilatation of ≥5 mm in Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm Should Trigger the Consideration for Pancreatectomy: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of Resected Cases

Simple Summary

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) are common but difficult to manage since accurate tools for diagnosing malignancy are unavailable. This study evaluates the diagnostic value of main pancreatic duct (MPD) diameter for detecting IPMN malignancy, using a meta-analysis of published data. The result suggests that malignancy is highly prevalent in IPMN with ductal dilatation of >5 mm.

Abstract

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) are common but difficult to manage since accurate tools for diagnosing malignancy are unavailable. This study tests the diagnostic value of the main pancreatic duct (MPD) diameter for detecting IPMN malignancy using a meta-analysis of published data of resected IPMNs. Collected from a comprehensive literature search, the articles included in this analysis must report malignancy cases (high-grade dysplasia (HGD) and invasive carcinoma (IC)) and MPD diameter so that two MPD cut-offs could be created. The sensitivity, specificity, and odds ratios of the two cutoffs for predicting malignancy were calculated. A review of 1493 articles yielded 20 retrospective studies with 3982 resected cases. A cutoff of ≥5 mm is more sensitive than the ≥10 mm cutoff and has pooled sensitivity of 72.20% and 75.60% for classification of HGD and IC, respectively. Both MPD cutoffs of ≥5 mm and ≥10 mm were associated with malignancy (OR = 4.36 (95% CI: 2.82, 6.75) vs. OR = 3.18 (95% CI: 2.25, 4.49), respectively). The odds of HGD and IC for patients with MPD ≥5 mm were 5.66 (95% CI: 3.02, 10.62) and 7.40 (95% CI: 4.95, 11.06), respectively. OR of HGD and IC for MPD ≥10 mm cutoff were 4.36 (95% CI: 3.20, 5.93) and 4.75 (95% CI: 2.39, 9.45), respectively. IPMN with MPD of >5 mm could very likely be malignant. In selected IPMN patients, pancreatectomy should be considered when MPD is >5 mm.

A Quantitative Global Proteomics Approach Identifies Candidate Urinary Biomarkers That Correlate With Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm Dysplasia

OBJECTIVES

A proteomic discovery study was performed to determine if urine possesses a unique biosignature that could form the basis for a noninvasive test able to predict intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) dysplasia.

METHODS

Urine was collected from patients undergoing surgery for IPMN (72 low/moderate, 27 high-grade/invasive). Quantitative mass spectrometry-based proteomics was performed. Proteins of interest were identified by differential expression analysis followed by principal component analysis.

RESULTS

Proteomics identified greater than 4800 urinary proteins. Low/moderate and high-grade/invasive IPMN were distinguished by 188 proteins (P < 0.05). Following principal component analysis and heatmap visualization, vitamin D binding protein (DBP), apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1), and alpha-1 antitrypsin (A1AT) were selected. The proteomic abundance of DBP (median [interquartile range]) was significantly higher for high-grade/invasive than for low/moderate IPMN (219,735 [128,882-269,943] vs. 112,295 [77,905-180,773] normalized reporter ion intensity units; P = 0.001). Similarly, APOA1 was more abundant in the high-grade/invasive than low/moderate groups (235,420 [144,933-371,247] vs 150,095 [103,419-236,591]; P = 0.0007) as was A1AT (567,514 [358,544-774,801] vs 358,393 [260,850-477,882]; P = 0.0006).

CONCLUSIONS

Urinary DBP, APOA1, and A1AT represent potential biomarker candidates that may provide a noninvasive means of predicting IPMN dysplastic grade.

Pearls and pitfalls of imaging features of pancreatic cystic lesions: a case-based approach with imaging-pathologic correlation

A variety of neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions of the pancreas can present with a predominantly cystic architecture. These lesions are increasingly being detected as incidental findings on routine cross-sectional imaging following technological advances in these techniques and their widespread use. The different histopathological behaviors show various common and uncommon imaging findings, and some cases show similar appearance in spite of different histopathology. Each lesion requires specific management because of the differing risk of progression to malignancy, and an accurate imaging diagnosis is crucial. The typical imaging characteristics that differentiate pancreatic cystic lesions have been well described and fully summarized. However, in addition to a small percentage of cases that shows uncommon imaging findings, a substantial percentage of cystic lesions shows overlapping imaging findings that can lead to radiological misdiagnosis. For appropriate diagnosis and optimal treatment strategy, it is important to know the uncommon and overlapping imaging findings of these lesions, in addition to familiarity with the typical aspects. In this article, we reconfirm the well-known characteristic imaging features of pancreatic cystic lesions and present several diagnostically challenging cases, focusing on the uncommon and overlapping imaging findings.

Mutational Mosaics of Cell-Free DNA from Pancreatic Cyst Fluids

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cyst fluids (PCFs) enriched in tumor-derived DNA are a potential source of new biomarkers. The study aimed to analyze germinal variants and mutational profiles of cell-free (cf)DNA shed into the cavity of pancreatic cysts.

METHODS

The study cohort consisted of 71 patients who underwent endoscopic ultrasound fine-needle aspiration of PCF. Five malignant cysts, 19 intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs), 11 mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs), eight serous cystic neoplasms (SCNs), and 28 pseudocysts were identified. The sequencing of 409 genes included in Comprehensive Cancer Panel was performed using Ion Proton System. The mutation rate of the KRAS and GNAS canonical loci was additionally determined using digital PCR.

RESULTS

The number of mutations detected with NGS varied from 0 to 22 per gene, and genes with the most mutations were: TP53, KRAS, PIK3CA, GNAS, ADGRA2, and APC. The frequencies of the majority of mutations did not differ between non-malignant cystic neoplasms and pseudocysts. NGS detected KRAS mutations in malignant cysts (60%), IPMNs (32%), MCNs (64%), SCNs (13%), and pseudocysts (14%), with GNAS mutations in 20%, 26%, 27%, 13%, and 21% of samples, respectively. Digital PCR-based testing increased KRAS (68%) and GNAS (52%) mutations detection level in IPMNs, but not other cyst types.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate relatively high rates of somatic mutations of cancer-related genes, including KRAS and GNAS, in cfDNA isolated from PCFs irrespectively of the pancreatic cyst type. Further studies on molecular mechanisms of pancreatic cysts malignant transformation in relation to their mutational profiles are required.

[Quality of indications in cystic lesions of the pancreas]

Cystic tumors of the pancreas (PCN) have increasingly gained importance in the clinical routine as they are frequently diagnosed as an incidental finding due to the continuous improvement in cross-sectional imaging. A differentiation is made between non-neoplastic and neoplastic cysts, whereby the latter has a tendency to malignant transformation to a varying extent. Therefore, they can be considered as precursor lesions of pancreatic cancer (PDAC). In addition to a detailed patient history and examination, imaging modalities, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) with fine needle aspiration (FNA) are used for the differential diagnosis. The indications for surgical resection of these lesions are based on the current European guidelines from 2018; however, the content is not evidence-based but relies on knowledge and recommendations from experts. According to these consensus recommendations asymptomatic serous cystic neoplasms (SCN) are serous lesions with a low tendency for malignant transformation and can be monitored. In contrast resection is warranted for all mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN) >4 cm and all solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPN). Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN), which are differentiated into main duct (MD-IPMN) and branch duct type (BD-IPMN) IPMN based on the position in the pancreatic duct system, should be resected as MD-IPMN and mixed type (MT)-IPMN. The risk of malignant transformation in BD-IPMN is variable and depends on risk factors, which are defined clinically and by imaging morphology. The treatment management is therefore carried out on an individual basis following risk estimation. In order to quantify the quality of indications in PCN and thereby also contributing to optimized medical care, prospective long-term studies are urgently needed.

Can contrast-enhanced harmonic endoscopic ultrasonography accurately diagnose main pancreatic duct involvement in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms?

BACKGROUND

Main pancreatic duct (MPD) involvement in branch duct-type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (BD-IPMNs) is a high risk finding for malignant IPMNs. However, discrepancies exist in the identification of MPD involvement between imaging findings and pathological diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of preoperative assessment of MPD involvement in IPMNs using contrast-enhanced harmonic endoscopic ultrasound (CH-EUS).

METHODS

This study involved 166 consecutive patients with BD-IPMNs who underwent surgical resection. CH-EUS was used to evaluate the MPD involvement according to the presence of mural nodules (MN) that advanced into the MPD or involved the MPD. The CH-EUS findings were compared with the pathological findings. Additionally, we analyzed the risk factors for malignant BD-IPMNs using multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 77, 51, and 38 patients were pathologically diagnosed with low-grade or intermediate-grade dysplasia, high-grade dysplasia and invasive IPMNs, respectively. MPD involvement was diagnosed using CH-EUS (MPD-inv.-EUS) in 90 (54.2%) patients with a sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 83.5%, 87.0% and 84.9%, respectively. The malignancy rate in patients with MPD-inv.-EUS was 71.6% (63/90). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that MPD-inv.-EUS (OR, 3.61; 95% CI:1.45-8.98), age (OR, 5.70; 95% CI: 1.47-22.2), cyst size (OR, 2.45; 95% CI:1.04-5.78) and MN size (OR, 7.05; 95% CI:2.48-20.0) were significant for malignant BD-IPMNs.

CONCLUSIONS

MPD-inv.-EUS accurately represents the pathological involvement of IPMN and may be a useful predictor of malignant BD-IPMNs.

[Indications for the Surgical Management of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions]

A steady improvement in modern imaging as well as increasing age in society have led to an increasing number of cystic pancreatic tumours being detected. Pancreatic cysts are a clinically challenging entity because they span a broad biological spectrum and their differentiation is often difficult, especially in small tumours. Therefore, they require a differentiated indication for indication of surgery. To determine recommendations for the surgical indication in cystic tumours of the pancreas, a quality committee for pancreatic diseases of the German Society for General and Visceral Surgery performed a systematic literature search and created this review. Based on the current evidence, signs of malignancy and high-risk criteria (icterus due to cystic pancreatic duct obstruction in the bile duct, enhancing mural nodules ≥ 5 mm or solid components in the cyst or pancreatic duct ≥ 10 mm), as well as symptoms, are a surgical indication, independently of the cyst entity (except pseudocysts). If the entity of the pancreatic cyst is detectable by diagnostic imaging, all main duct IPMN and IPMN of the mixed type, all MCN > 4 cm and all SPN should be resected. SCN and branch-duct IPMN without worrisome features do not constitute an indication for surgery. The indication of operation in branch-duct IPMN with relative risk criteria and MCN < 4 cm is the subject of current discussions and should be individualised. By defining indication recommendations, the present work aims to improve the indication quality in cystic pancreatic tumours. However, the surgical indication should always be individualised, taking into account age, comorbidities and the patient's wishes.

The management of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) of the pancreas are one of the most common preneoplastic entities among pancreatic cystic neoplasms (PCN). Their incidence is increasing due to an extensive use of cross-sectional imaging, but management still remains controversial. Among IPMNs, the main duct (MD-IPMN) and mixed (MT-IPMN) types harbor a high risk of malignant degeneration requiring resection in most of cases. The branch duct type (BD-IPMN), on the other side, can be safely surveilled as surgical resection is limited to selected cases deemed at high risk of malignant progression according to specific clinical and radiological features. An accurate diagnosis and a correct assessment of malignant potential are often hard to achieve, and clinical management still relies on the experience of the gastroenterologist/surgeon that is called to choose between a major pancreatic resection burdened by high morbidity and mortality rates and a life-long surveillance. The purpose of this report is to summarize the available evidence supporting the current practice for the management of IPMN and to offer a useful practical guide from first observation to postoperative follow-up.

Molecular Diagnostics and Testing for Pancreatic Cysts

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In current clinical practice, the diagnosis and management of pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) are based on guidelines that combine clinical and imaging findings. These guidelines usefully identify a large category of low-risk PCLs that do not require treatment. However, they have limited accuracy for diagnosis of advanced neoplasia in worrisome and high-risk PCLs. Novel molecular markers that can accurately detect advanced neoplasia in PCLs can transform the care of patients with PCLs. We reviewed the recent medical literature on molecular diagnostics of PCLs and summarized molecular biomarkers assayed in cyst fluid, pancreatic juice, and blood.

RECENT FINDINGS

Several studies have been recently published describing promising early results in genetic, epigenetic, and protein biomarkers from cyst fluid to help in both histologic diagnosis and detection of advanced neoplasia. The majority of studies have been completed using opportunistically collected archival cyst fluid and few report validation in independent sample sets. Results of ongoing multicenter prospective validation studies are awaited and will help define the best combination of cyst fluid molecular markers. In multifocal PCLs communicating with the pancreatic ductal system, a pancreatic juice biomarker is likely to be less invasive and more informative. Novel biomarkers in pancreatic juice and blood are in early phases of study.

SUMMARY

The field of molecular diagnostic biomarkers for PCLs is rapidly evolving with several promising candidate markers being prospectively evaluated. In the near future, these novel molecular markers, combined with advances in imaging technology, will transform clinical decision-making in the management of PCLs and improve patient outcomes.

Branch Duct Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms: Recommendations for Follow-Up and Surgery

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Pancreatic cysts are increasingly diagnosed, mainly during abdominal imaging performed for other reasons. Between pancreatic cystic neoplasm, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms are the most common pre-malignant entities. Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms involving side branches overall harbor a low risk of malignancy, and in the recent past, a progressively more conservative approach has been consolidated. Purpose of this report is to summarize the evidence supporting the current practice for the management of branch duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm and to offer a useful practical guide from first observation to post-operative follow-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Review of the most important scientific literature on intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms was made. In this review article, we also report the experience of a high volume center in managing Pancreatic cystic neoplasms.

RESULTS

The correct management during surveillance still is a matter of debate, since many guidelines have been published suggesting different clinical approaches. Recently, follow-up discontinuation has also been proposed in selected cases.

CONCLUSION

Despite significant improvements made by the increase of evidence, selecting surgical candidates because of an increased risk of malignant progression remains an unsolved issue and a hot topic for pancreatologists.

Diagnosis and Surveillance of Incidental Pancreatic Cystic Lesions: 2017 Consensus Recommendations of the Korean Society of Abdominal Radiology

The occurrence of incidentally detected pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) is continuously increasing. Radiologic examinations including computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging with magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography have been widely used as the main diagnostic and surveillance methods for patients with incidental PCLs. Although most incidentally detected PCLs are considered benign, they have the potential to become malignant. Currently, we have several guidelines for the management of incidental PCLs. However, there is still debate over proper management, in terms of accurate diagnosis, optimal follow-up interval, and imaging tools. Because imaging studies play a crucial role in the management of incidental PCLs, the 2017 consensus recommendations of the Korean Society of Abdominal Radiology for the diagnosis and surveillance of incidental PCLs approved 11 out of 16 recommendations. Although several challenges remain in terms of optimization and standardization, these consensus recommendations might serve as useful tools to provide a more standardized approach and to optimize care of patients with incidental PCLs.

Differential diagnosis of pancreatic serous cystadenoma and mucinous cystadenoma: utility of textural features in combination with morphological characteristics

Background

Texture analysis of medical images has been reported to be a reliable method for differential diagnosis of neoplasms. This study was to investigate the performance of textural features and the combined performance of textural features and morphological characteristics in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic serous and mucinous cystadenomas.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 59 patients with pancreatic serous cystadenoma and 32 patients with pancreatic mucinous cystadenoma at our hospital. A three-dimensional region of interest (ROI) around the margin of the lesion was drawn manually in the CT images of each patient, and textural parameters were retrieved from the ROI. Textural features were extracted using the LifeX software. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method was applied to select the textural features. The differential diagnostic capabilities of morphological features, textural features, and their combination were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used as the main indicator. The diagnostic accuracy based on the AUC value is defined as follows: 0.9–1.0, excellent; 0.8–0.9, good; 0.7–0.8, moderate; 0.6–0.7, fair; 0.5–0.6, poor.

Results

In the differential diagnosis of pancreatic serous and mucinous cystadenomas, the combination of morphological characteristics and textural features (AUC 0.893, 95% CI 0.816–0.970) is better than morphological characteristics (AUC 0.783, 95% CI 0.665–0.900) or textural features (AUC 0.777, 95% CI 0.673–0.880) alone.

Conclusions

In conclusion, our preliminary results highlighted the potential of CT texture analysis in discriminating pancreatic serous cystadenoma from mucinous cystadenoma. Furthermore, the combination of morphological characteristics and textural features can significantly improve the diagnostic performance, which may provide a reliable method for selecting patients with surgical intervention indications in consideration of the different treatment principles of the two diseases.

Observation or resection of pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm: An ongoing tug of war

An increasing number of patients are being referred to pancreatic centres around the world due to often incidentally discovered cystic neoplasms of the pancreas. The evaluation and management of pancreatic cystic neoplasms is a controversial topic and with existing guidelines based on a lack of strong evidence there is discordance between centres and guidelines with regard to when to offer surgery and when to favour surveillance. The frequency, duration and modality of surveillance is also controversial as this is resource-consuming and must be balanced against the perceived benefits and risks involved. While there is consensus that the risk of malignancy should be balanced against the life-expectancy and comorbidities, the indications for surgery and surveillance strategies vary among the guidelines. Thus, the tug of war between surveillance or resection continues. Here we discuss the recommendations from guidelines with further accumulating data and emerging reports on intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm in the literature.

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas: clinicopathological features and long-term outcomes following a pancreatectomy

OBJECTIVE

the objective of this study was to analyze the anatomical and clinical features and long-term oncologic outcomes of 25 patients that underwent surgery due to intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

patients undergoing surgery for intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas were identified from a prospective database of pancreatic resections. Demographic data, symptoms, type of surgery and type of lesion (branch type, main duct or mixed) were recorded. The lesions were classified into invasive (high grade dysplasia and carcinoma) and noninvasive (low- or intermediate-grade dysplasia). Postoperative complications were analyzed as well as the pattern of recurrence and disease-free survival at five and ten years.

RESULTS

the most common symptoms in the 25 patients (14 males and eleven females) were abdominal pain and weight loss. Eight (32%) cases were diagnosed incidentally. Twelve (48%) of the lesions were of the branch type, three affected the main duct and ten (40%) were mixed. Twelve cephalic duodenopancreatectomies and seven total pancreatectomies were performed; three were central; two, distal; and one, enucleation. Seven cases (32%) had an invasive phenotype. Three patients had locoregional and distant recurrence at six, 16 and 46 months after surgery with a median follow-up of 7.7 years. Disease-free survival at five and ten years for the noninvasive type was 94% and 57% for invasive phenotypes (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm is a heterogeneous entity with well differentiated phenotypes, which requires a tailored strategy and treatment, as established in the current consensus guidelines due to its malignant potential.

Overview and comparison of guidelines for management of pancreatic cystic neoplasms

Pancreatic cysts are identified at an increasing frequency. Although mucinous cystic neoplasms represent a pre-malignant condition, the majority of these lesions do not progress to cancer. Over the last 10 years several societies have established guidelines for the diagnosis, initial evaluation and surveillance of these lesions. Here we provide an overview of five commonly used guidelines: 2015 American Gastroenterological Association, 2017 International Association of Pancreatology, American College of Gastroenterology 2018, European Study Group and American College of Radiology. We describe the similarities and differences between the methods used to formulate these guidelines, the population they target and their approaches towards initial evaluation and surveillance of cystic lesions.

Genetic testing vs microforceps biopsy in pancreatic cysts: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and cytology in pancreatic cystic fluid are suboptimal for evaluation of pancreatic cystic neoplasms. Genetic testing and microforceps biopsy are promising tools for pre-operative diagnostic improvement but comparative performance of both methods is unknown.

AIM

To compare the accuracy of genetic testing and microforceps biopsy in pancreatic cysts referred for surgery.

METHODS

We performed a literature search in Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies evaluating genetic testing of cystic fluid and microforceps biopsy of pancreatic cysts, with endoscopic ultrasound with fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) prior to surgery and surgical pathology as reference standard for diagnosis. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy for: 1- benign cysts; 2- mucinous low-risk cysts; 3- high-risk cysts, and the diagnostic yield and rate of correctly identified cysts with microforceps biopsy and molecular analysis. We also assessed publication bias, heterogeneity, and study quality.

RESULTS

Eight studies, including 1206 patients, of which 203 (17%) referred for surgery who met the inclusion criteria were analyzed in the systematic review, and seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. Genetic testing and microforceps biopsies were identical for diagnosis of benign cysts. Molecular analysis was superior for diagnosis of both low and high-risk mucinous cysts, with sensitivities of 0.89 (95%CI: 0.79-0.95) and 0.57 (95%CI: 0.42-0.71), specificities of 0.88 (95%CI: 0.75-0.95) and 0.88 (95%CI: 0.80-0.93) and AUC of 0.9555 and 0.92, respectively. The diagnostic yield was higher in microforceps biopsies than in genetic analysis (0.73 vs 0.54, respectively) but the rates of correctly identified cysts were identical (0.73 with 95%CI: 0.62-0.82 vs 0.71 with 95%CI: 0.49-0.86, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Genetic testing and microforceps biopsies are useful second tests, with identical results in benign pancreatic cysts. Genetic analysis performs better for low- and high-risk cysts but has lower diagnostic yield.

KRAS in Cyst Fluid Obtained by Endoscopic Ultrasound-Fine-Needle Aspiration in Pancreatic Cystic Lesions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of KRAS mutation in pancreatic cystic fluid and compare it with carcinoembryonic antigen and cytology, we identified studies with cyst fluid obtained by endoscopic ultrasound prior to surgery. We classified cysts as malignant, premalignant, and benign. A random-effects model was used for quantitative meta-analysis. Pooled sensitivities, specificities, and summary receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were conducted. We analyzed 16 studies, with 3429 patients, including 731 referred for surgery. Carcinoembryonic antigen was better for clinically significant cysts (premalignant and malignant) with sensitivity = 0.58 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53-0.65), specificity = 0.9 (95% CI, 0.76-0.97), and area under the curve (AUC) = 0.69. Cytology performed better in malignant cysts, with sensitivity = 0.37 (95% CI, 0.27-0.48), specificity = 0.96 (95% CI, 0.93-0.98), and AUC = 0.78. Isolated, KRAS mutation failed the diagnosis of malignant and significant cysts, with sensitivities = 0.43 (95% CI, 0.34-0.43) and 0.46 (95% CI, 0.42-0.51), specificities = 0.62 (95% CI, 0.56-0.68) and 0.97 (95% CI, 0.92-0.99), and AUCs = 0.56 and 0.53, respectively. Carcinoembryonic antigen and cytology are more accurate than KRAS. Additional studies are lacking to recommend KRAS as a single diagnostic test.

The lysosomal aminopeptidase tripeptidyl peptidase 1 displays increased activity in malignant pancreatic cysts

Incidental detection of pancreatic cysts has increased dramatically over the last decade, but risk stratification and clinical management remain a challenge. Mucinous cysts are precursor lesions to pancreatic cancer, however, the majority are indolent. Current diagnostics cannot identify mucinous cysts that harbor cancer or reliably differentiate these lesions from nonmucinous cysts, which present minimal risk of malignant progression. We previously determined that activity of two aspartyl proteases was increased in mucinous cysts. Using a global protease activity profiling technology, termed multiplex substrate profiling by mass spectrometry (MSP-MS), we now show that aminopeptidase activity is also elevated in mucinous cysts. The serine aminopeptidase, tripeptidyl peptidase 1 (TPP1), was detected by proteomic analysis of cyst fluid samples and quantitation using targeted MS demonstrated that this protease was significantly more abundant in mucinous cysts. In a cohort of 110 cyst fluid samples, TPP1 activity was increased more than 3-fold in mucinous cysts relative to nonmucinous cysts. Moreover, TPP1 activity is primarily associated with mucinous cysts that harbor high-grade dysplasia or invasive carcinoma. Although only 59% accurate for differentiating these lesions, measurement of TPP1 activity may improve early detection and treatment of high-risk pancreatic cysts when used in conjunction with other promising biomarkers.

Main pancreatic duct dilation greater than 6 mm is associated with an increased risk of high-grade dysplasia and cancer in IPMN patients

INTRODUCTION

IPMNs, considered precursor lesions of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC), might display histological alteration varying from low-grade dysplasia (LGD) to cancer. Nevertheless, the prevalence of PDAC is far below the prevalence of IPMN; therefore, not all of these precursor lesions finally progress to cancer. Preoperative features consistent with and finding at final histology of high-grade dysplasia (HGD) or cancer are currently lacking. The aim of this study is to correlate the presence of preoperative clinical features with the finding of advance lesions at final histology.

METHODS

This is retrospective cohort analysis of patients who underwent surgery for histologically confirmed IPMNs at Karolinska University Hospital, from 2008 to 2015.

RESULTS

MPD 6-9.9 mm and ≥ 10 mm were associated with an increased risk of HGD/cancer (respectively, OR 2.92, CI 1.38-6.20, p = 0.005 and OR 2.65, CI 1.12-6.25, p = 0.02). Preoperative high CA19.9 and jaundice were both associated with a higher risk of HGD/cancer at final histology (respectively, OR 4.15, CI 1.90-9.05, p = 0.0003 and OR 15.36, CI 1.94-121.22, p = 0.009). At sex- and age-adjusted multivariable logistic regression analysis, MPD between 6 and 9.9 mm (OR 2.64, CI 1.15-6.06, p = 0.02), jaundice (OR 12.43, CI 1.44-106.93, p = 0.02), and elevated CA19.9 (OR 3.71, CI 1.63-8.46, p = 0.001) remained associated with the occurrence of HGD/cancer.

DISCUSSION

The presence of MPD dilation ≥ 6 mm, jaundice, and elevated CA19.9 in IPMN patients are consistent with the finding for HGD/cancer at final histology, thus representing possible markers of advanced lesions suitable for earlier or preventive curative surgical treatment.

Tuberculosis presenting as a pancreatic cystic neoplasm

A 33-year-old Thai born woman was referred to our tertiary referral hospital with back and epigastric pain. Investigations included abdominal ultrasound and CT scan of the abdomen which demonstrated a 3 cm cystic lesion in the head of the pancreas, most likely a mucinous cystadenoma. Because of its malignant potential resection was advised. During surgical exploration, the tumour appeared unresectable, due to involvement of the common hepatic artery. PCR on biopsy revealed Mycobacterium tuberculosis The patient was referred to an infectious disease specialist, and a full recovery was achieved after 6 months of antimicrobials.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided through-the-needle microforceps biopsy in the evaluation of pancreatic cystic lesions: a multicenter study

Background and study aims  Accurate diagnosis and classification of pancreatic cysts (PCs) remains a challenge. The aims of this study were to: (1) evaluate the safety and technical success of a novel microforceps for EUS-guided through-the-needle biopsy (TTNB) of PCs; and (2) assess its diagnostic yield for mucinous PCs when compared to FNA cyst fluid analysis and cytology. Patients and methods  This was a multicenter retrospective analysis of 47 patients who underwent EUS-FNA and TTNB for PCs between January 2014 and June 2017. Technical success was defined as acquisition of a specimen adequate for cytologic or histological evaluation. Cyst fluid carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was used to initially categorize cysts as non-mucinous (CEA < 192 ng/mL) or mucinous (CEA ≥ 192 ng/mL). Final diagnosis was based on identifiable mucinous pancreatic cystic epithelium on cytology, microforceps histology and/or surgical histology when available. Results  Forty-seven patients with PCs (mean size 30.7 mm) were included. TTNB was successfully performed in 46 of 47 (97.9 %). Technical success was significantly lower with FNA (48.9 %) compared to TTNB (85.1 %) ( P  < .001). For cysts with insufficient amount of fluid for CEA (n = 19) or CEA < 192 ng/mL, the cumulative incremental diagnostic yield of a mucinous PC was significantly higher with TTNB vs. FNA (52.6 % vs 18.4 %; P  = .004). TTNB alone (34.4 %) diagnosed more mucinous PCs than either CEA ≥ 192 ng/mL alone (6.3 %) or when combined with FNA cytology (9.4 %). One episode of self-limited bleeding (2.1 %) and one of pancreatitis (2.1 %) occurred. Conclusions  EUS-TTNB is safe and effective for evaluating PCs. TTNB may help increase the diagnostic yield of mucinous PCs.

Cystic tumors of the pancreas. An update of the surgical experience in a single institution

BACKGROUND

the aim of the present study was to analyze the clinicopathological features of patients undergoing pancreatic surgical resections due to cystic neoplasms of the pancreas.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

demographic data, form of presentation, radiologic images and location of the tumors within the pancreas were analyzed. Data was also collected on the type of surgery (open/laparoscopic), postoperative complications and their severity and oncologic outcomes.

RESULTS

eighty-two pancreatic resections were performed. The mean age of patients was 57 years and 49 (59%) were female. Forty-one tumors (50%) were incidental and the most frequent symptoms in the group of symptomatic patients were abdominal pain (63.4%) and weight loss (36.5%). Thirty-two tumors (39%) were located in the tail of the pancreas, 25 (30.5%) in the head and 20 (24.4%) in the body. Thirty-nine (47.5%) distal pancreatectomies, 16 central, ten duodenal pancreatectomies and one enucleation were performed; 40 (48.5%) were carried out laparoscopically. Mean hospital stay was ten days and eight patients (7%) experienced severe complications, one was a pancreatic fistula. Sixty-six tumors (80.5%) were recorded as non-invasive and 16 (19.5%) as invasive: seven intraductal mucinous papillary tumors, one cystic mucinous tumor, four solid pseudopapillary tumors and four cystic neuroendocrine tumors. There was a median follow-up of 64 months; disease-free survival at five and ten years was 97.4% in the patients with non-invasive tumors and 84.6% and 70.5% in the invasive tumors group (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

fifty percent of cystic neoplasms of the pancreas are incidental. Two phenotypes exist, invasive and non-invasive.