Serous Cystadenoma: A Review on Diagnosis and Management

Abstract

Incidental pancreatic cysts are highly prevalent, with management dependent on the risk of malignant progression. Serous cystadenomas (SCAs) are the most common benign pancreatic cysts seen on imaging. They have typical morphological patterns but may also show atypical features that mimic precancerous and cancerous cysts. If a confident diagnosis of SCA is made, no further follow-up is warranted. Therefore, a preoperative distinction between SCA and precancerous or cancerous lesions is critically essential. Distinguishing an SCA from other types of pancreatic cysts on imaging remains a challenge, thus leading to misdiagnosis and ramifications. This review summarizes the current evidence on diagnosing and managing SCA.

Keywords

• serous cystadenoma
• pancreatic cysts
• CT
• MRI
• EUS
• surveillance