Patient Preferences for Management of Cystic Neoplasms of the Pancreas: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine how patient anxiety, knowledge, and cancer worry influence preferences for management of pancreatic cysts.

METHODS

We performed a prospective, cross-sectional study using a disease-specific survey instrument. We included patients older than 18 years who were diagnosed with a pancreatic cyst. A telephone survey instrument was developed to assess baseline anxiety using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), knowledge regarding pancreatic cysts, cancer worry, and patient preferences using a standard gamble.

RESULTS

Of the 100 studied participants (median age, 65 years; 72% women), median Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale score was 4 (normal range). In terms of knowledge, 96% of the patients were not aware of their specific cyst type, and 58% were unaware of the possibility of any cyst-related malignancy. Overall, 8% of respondents had some degree of cancer worry. Respondents were more willing to undergo magnetic resonance imaging surveillance compared with endoscopic ultrasound or surgery. Knowledge of cyst type was a significant predictor of willingness to undergo invasive testing.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a significant gap in patient knowledge with respect to pancreatic cysts. Greater emphasis on patient education can help patients make informed decisions regarding cyst management.