title: Cystic neoplasms of the pancreas: CT and sonography.
abstract: Cystic neoplasms of the pancreas are pathologically divided into macrocystic adenomas and microcystic adenomas, the former are considered a premalignant lesion and the latter without malignant potential. Five cases of cystic neoplasms are presented and the sonographic and/or computed tomographic features of microcystic and macrocystic adenoma are compared. A specific diagnosis can at times be suggested based on the computed tomography and sonography findings. In the proper clinical setting microcystic adenoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a pancreatic mass seen on sonography and computed tomography. Preoperative biopsy with appropriate pathologic staining can be performed and aid in directing appropriate therapy.
mesh_terms: D000230:Adenocarcinoma / Q000175:diagnosis*; D000236:Adenoma / Q000175:diagnosis*; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001706:Biopsy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010179:Pancreas / Q000473:pathology; D010181:Pancreatic Cyst / Q000175:diagnosis*; D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D013194:Staining and Labeling; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014463:Ultrasonography