Pancreatic cysts

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Treatments and drugs

By Mayo Clinic staff

Treatment differs depending on the type of cyst and whether it causes symptoms. Sometimes, no treatment is necessary.

A benign pseudocyst — even a large one — can be left alone as long as it isn't causing you worrisome symptoms or enlarging. A pseudocyst that is causing bothersome symptoms or growing larger may be drained with a needle or surgically removed, often with the use of an endoscope.

Because a serous cystadenoma so rarely evolves into cancer, it also can be left alone unless it causes symptoms or enlarges. Your doctor may want to follow its size over time by checking repeat scans, especially if a precancerous cyst can't be ruled out.

Surgery
Treatment for most other types of lesions in the pancreas is surgical removal, because of the risk of cancer. Surgery is very effective, with little chance of recurrence. However, a pseudocyst that is removed may recur if you have ongoing pancreatitis.

DS00731

July 8, 2008

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