From the Archives of the AFIP. Microcystic adenoma of the pancreas
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1Department of Radiologic Pathology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Washington, DC 20306-6000.
Abstract:
Microcystic adenoma is a benign pancreatic neoplasm typically seen in elderly women. Presenting symptoms and signs such as pain, weight loss, jaundice, and a palpable mass are usually observed, but the lesion may be incidental and does not necessarily require excision. The tumor is generally large and well demarcated. It contains innumerable small cysts, giving it a honeycombed appearance. On computed tomographic scans, the hypervascular tumor has attenuation values close to those of water before contrast material is administered, but it usually enhances afterward. On sonograms, it is often predominantly echogenic, although some larger cysts may be seen. A calcified central scar may be seen with either modality.
Insights
Microcystic adenoma is a benign pancreatic neoplasm often found incidentally. While typically large and well-demarcated with a honeycomb appearance, it may not require surgical excision.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Microcystic adenoma is a benign pancreatic neoplasm.
- It is typically observed in elderly women.
- Symptoms may include pain, weight loss, and jaundice, but it can also be an incidental finding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the characteristics of microcystic adenoma.
- To highlight imaging findings on CT and sonography.
- To discuss the management implications of this benign neoplasm.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentation and imaging features.
- Analysis of computed tomographic (CT) scans.
- Analysis of sonographic images.
Main Results:
- Microcystic adenomas are generally large, well-demarcated tumors with a characteristic honeycomb appearance due to innumerable small cysts.
- CT scans show a hypervascular tumor with water-like attenuation before contrast, enhancing afterward.
- Sonography often reveals a predominantly echogenic mass, sometimes with visible cysts and a possible calcified central scar on either modality.
Conclusions:
- Microcystic adenoma is a benign pancreatic lesion.
- Imaging features on CT and sonography are key to diagnosis.
- Surgical excision may not always be necessary for this incidentally found neoplasm.