I have a suspicious and previously undiagnosed pancreatic cystic lesion. What does that mean?

While not all pancreatic cysts are cancerous, some are, and some can undergo changes over time that increase the risk for pancreatic cancer. If you have a suspicious pancreatic cyst, it is important to get a timely and accurate diagnosis to confirm whether or not your cyst contains cancer cells so that prompt treatment can occur. If your cyst is 1cm or smaller, your healthcare provider might tell you to wait and see. If not, it is essential you obtain a definitive diagnosis as soon as possible.

Where do I go from here?

You’re on the right track! Researching all your treatment options is the best action you can take to confidently manage your health. In preparation for planning your care path with your healthcare team, continue reading to learn more about the importance of a swift and accurate diagnosis of your pancreatic cyst, as the therapy depends on the type of cyst you have. Luckily there are advanced imaging technologies that can reduce your anxiety and improve your quality of care.

1. American Cancer Society, Cancer Facts and Figures 2014-2021. https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/annual-cancer-facts-and-figures/2021/cancer-facts-and-figures-2021.pdf