Pancreatic Cysts IPMN
Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm (IPMN) is a type of pancreatic
cyst. IPMNs grow within the pancreatic ducts, and are characterized by
the production of thick fluid by the tumor cells called mucin. It has
been shown that hese mucin-producing tumors can progress to invasive cancer
similar the growth of a colon polyp into colon cancer.
In addition to IPMNs, there are several other types of pancreatic cysts,
such as serous cystadenoma, mucinous cystadenoma, papillary cystic tumor
and cystic islet cell tumors of the pancreas. Because many pancreatic
cysts can be precancerous or cancerous, it’s important to be evaluated
by a center that provides a multidisciplinary, specialized team of hepatobiliary
and pancreatic experts.
Risk Factors for Pancreatic Cysts (IPMN)
The only reported risk factors that may increase the risk of pancreatic
cysts include:
- Chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
- Advanced age
Symptoms of Pancreatic Cysts (IPMN)
Many individuals do not experience any symptoms from pancreatic cysts,
but they are discovered when imaging studies are done for other reasons.
When signs or symptoms of pancreatic cysts do occur, they typically include:
- Abdominal pain in the upper abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
- History of pancreatitis
- Yellowing of the skin or jaundice
- Loss of appetite and/or weight loss
- Fever and/or night sweats
- Loss of color in the stools
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important
to seek proper evaluation and treatment from a healthcare expert experienced
in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal and pancreatic issues.