Cystadenoma of the pancreas

Five patients with cystadenoma of the pancreas were seen during a period of 22 years at this institute. This rare benign tumor occurred predominantly in middle age women, with the presenting symptoms of pain and an epigastric mass, but without a history suggestive of pancreatitis or abdominal trauma. Selective celiac and superior mesenteric antiography is helpful in establishing the diagnosis. If this cystic tumor is not recognized and adequately treated, the surgeon may miss the opportunity for cure. Cystadenoma should be suspected when a cystic mass arising from the body or tail of the pancreas is encountered without evidence of metastases. Although surgical extirpation is the preferable treatment, undue risks should not be undertaken because of the slow growth rate of this benign tumor. Due to the known association of this tumor with other malignant lesions, diabetes mellitus as well as multicystic tumors of the liver and kidneys, these patients should be thoroughtly investigated.