[Cystic lesions of the pancreas]

The lesions of the pancreas represent a very interesting chapter of its pathology. Although they seem very much alike, the different anatomo- pathological forms have well defined individual features, which impose the therapeutical attitude. The authors have analyzed a group of 62 patients, admitted in our clinic between 1974 and 2003. Most of them had pancreatic pseudocysts (54-86%); 6 (10%) had cystadenomas; 1 (2%)--cystadenocarcinoma and 1 (2%)--solid and papillary cystic tumour. The diagnostic methods are largely presented and compared to the literature; it is emphasized the importance of imaging procedures and of the histo-pathological examination. The different therapeutical procedures, their advantages and limits are also analyzed--the necessity of a conservative attitude, with the total or partial preservation of the pancreas, is almost unanimously recognized.