Approach to FNA of Pancreatic Cysts

Pancreatic cysts are increasingly detected on imaging studies. Accurate determination of the type of cyst is important to provide appropriate care for patients. It is also very clear that not one single modality can provide adequate diagnostic information for pancreatic cysts. A multimodal approach to the diagnosis of pancreatic cyst is the key. This review will highlight how to approach to fine-needle aspiration of pancreatic cysts. The review will also highlight salient features of common neoplastic pancreatic cysts along with the use of ancillary testing which includes biochemical testing, commonly utilized molecular tests, and/or immunohistochemical tests to provide an accurate diagnosis.