Pancreatic cysts may be “true” cysts with an epithelial lining or post-inflammatory cysts called pseudocysts. Pseudocysts often arise after pancreatitis and may resolve on their own. Certain cyst types (such as IPMNs or mucinous cysts) carry a higher risk of progressing to cancer and may require ongoing surveillance or surgery.
Many pancreatic cysts are discovered incidentally on imaging and cause no symptoms. Larger cysts or pseudocysts can cause abdominal discomfort, fullness, or complications like infection.
Call the office if you have been told you have a pancreatic cyst and develop new or worsening abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss, or if you are unsure about your recommended follow-up schedule.
Seek emergency care for severe abdominal pain, high fever, vomiting, or signs of infection or bleeding related to a known pancreatic cyst.
Evaluation involves detailed imaging (CT, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound) to characterize the cyst and sometimes cyst fluid sampling to assess cancer risk.
Many cysts are monitored with periodic imaging. Pseudocysts may resolve on their own or need drainage if large or symptomatic. Higher-risk cysts may require surgery to prevent cancer.
If your insurance requires a referral or prior authorization, our billing office will make every effort to obtain it before services are rendered. If you choose to proceed without required authorization, insurance may deny coverage. If you are a Medicare patient, you may be asked to sign an Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN) acknowledging financial responsibility if insurance does not pay. If you are enrolled in a commercial insurance plan you will be asked to sign a non-covered services form.