Management of pancreatic cysts and guidelines: what the gastroenterologist needs to know

The prevalence of pancreatic cysts has increased significantly over the last decade, partly secondary to increased quality and frequency of cross-sectional imaging. While the majority never progress to cancer, a small number will and need to be followed. The management of pancreatic cysts can be both confusing and intimidating due to the multiple guidelines with varying recommendations. Despite the differences in the specifics of the guidelines, they all agree on several high-risk features that should get the attention of any clinician when assessing a pancreatic cyst: presence of a mural nodule or solid component, dilation of the main pancreatic duct (or presence of main duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm), pancreatic cyst size >= 3-4 cm, or positive cytology on pancreatic cyst fluid aspiration. Other important criteria to consider include rapid cyst growth (>= 5 mm/year), elevated serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels, new-onset diabetes mellitus, or acute pancreatitis thought to be related to the cystic lesion.