Cancer cytopathology
-
Cancer cytopathology · Mar 2017
Preoperative characteristics and cytological features of 136 histologically confirmed pancreatic mucinous cystic neoplasms.
Mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs) of the pancreas present a management conundrum. The majority are benign but all are resected due to their malignant potential. Recent studies have recommended nonsurgical management. In the current study, the authors analyzed the preoperative imaging, cytology, and cyst fluid characteristics of 136 histologically confirmed MCNs to assess predictors of a high-risk (HR) cyst for surgical triage. ⋯ To the authors' knowledge, the current study is the largest series to date analyzing the cytological features of histologically confirmed MCN. Cytology is insensitive but very specific for detecting a HR MCN and outperformed imaging for the detection of HR MCN. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration and cytology should be performed on any clinically suspected MCN that is being considered for conservative management. Cancer Cytopathol 2017;125:169-177. © 2016 American Cancer Society.