Serous Cystadenocarcinoma of the Pancreas: Clinical Features and Management of a Rare Tumor.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: The vast majority of serous cystic neoplasms of the pancreas are benign, and small, asymptomatic lesions, which are generally managed with observation. However, some of these tumors may attain a large size and occasionally metastasize.

METHODS

In this study, we present a 78-year-old man with serous cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas with liver metastases treated by distal pancreatectomy and liver ablation, who went on to develop new liver metastases 5 years after the initial operation. We perform a literature review to determine the number of these malignant neoplasms previously reported and to identify features associated with malignant lesions.

RESULTS

Literature reveals that metastatic serous cystadenocarcinomas of the pancreas are rare tumors, occurring in less than 3% of cases of serous cystic neoplasms. All malignant cases reported have been in tumors >4 cm in size.

CONCLUSIONS

Serous cystic neoplasms of the pancreas >4 cm have malignant potential and therefore should be considered for surgical management.