An algorithmic approach to the diagnosis of pancreatic neoplasms.
BACKGROUND
The pancreas gives rise to an array of distinct neoplasms that can be solid, cystic, or intraductal and can recapitulate the various lines of differentiation present in the normal gland.


OBJECTIVE
To develop an algorithmic approach to the diagnosis of pancreatic neoplasms that simplifies their pathologic evaluation.


METHODS
We reviewed literature related to the classification of pancreatic neoplasms on the basis of their gross, histologic, and immunohistochemical features.


CONCLUSIONS
By using a series of dichotomous decisions, the differential diagnosis of a pancreatic neoplasm can be narrowed, and in cases of the more common neoplasms, accurate classification can be achieved. Uncommon neoplasms not accounted for by this approach are also discussed, and the additional diagnostic information needed for complete pathologic reporting is presented.
Klimstra
David S
DS
Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA. klimstrd@mskcc.org
Pitman
Martha B
MB
Hruban
Ralph H
RH
D000465:Algorithms; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010190:Pancreatic Neoplasms / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology*