Pancreatic cystic endocrine neoplasms

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Surgical Pathology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Cystic pancreatic endocrine tumors are rare and can be misdiagnosed.
• Pancreatic pseudocysts are common cystic lesions requiring distinct management.

Observation:

• A patient presented with a cystic lesion initially managed as a pancreatic pseudocyst.
• Persistence of the lesion and reoperation were necessary for correct diagnosis.

Findings:

• The neoplasm stained positive for glucagon and pancreatic polypeptide.
• No clinical signs of hyperfunction were present despite positive staining.

Implications:

• Biopsy of all pancreatic cystic lesions during surgery is recommended to prevent misdiagnosis.
• Neoplastic pancreatic cysts require resection, not internal drainage, for optimal outcomes.