A pancreatic cyst is a fluid-filled pocket that forms inside the pancreas. Some cysts are harmless and remain stable for years, while others may grow or carry a small risk of cancer. Most cysts develop slowly and cause no pain, but certain types require regular monitoring and occasional treatment.
Many pancreatic cysts produce no symptoms and are found incidentally on imaging. If symptoms do occur, they can include:
The exact reason a pancreatic cyst forms is not always clear, but common contributing factors include:
With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive pancreatic health solutions, GastroDoxs provides expert diagnostics and effective treatment for pancreatic cysts and related conditions. Our approach is rooted in compassionate, personalized care to help you achieve peace of mind and the best possible outcomes.
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We've successfully treated more than 755 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Pancreatic cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in or around the pancreas. While many are benign and require only observation, some can grow, cause symptoms, or carry a risk of malignancy.
Pancreatic cysts become more common with age. Studies show up to 20% of adults over age 60 may have one detected incidentally on imaging.
Certain types of cysts-especially mucinous cystic neoplasms-carry a 5-10% risk of malignant transformation, which is why regular follow-up with imaging and evaluation is crucial.
A true pancreatic cyst has an epithelial lining (a defined wall), whereas a pseudocyst-often arising after pancreatitis-lacks this true lining and is surrounded instead by scar tissue.
The ICD-10 code for "Cyst of pancreas, not elsewhere classified" is K86.2, used for billing and medical documentation.
Surgery is recommended if the cyst is large, growing, has suspicious imaging features (e.g., solid components or thickened walls), or if there are concerning lab markers. Your specialist will review risks and outcomes before proceeding.
Some cyst types can evolve into cancer over time. Monitoring growth patterns, cyst characteristics, and fluid analysis helps us detect any early warning signs and intervene promptly.
Most patients undergo a CT scan or MRI every 6 to 12 months, depending on cyst size, type, and risk factors, to ensure no significant changes have occurred.
Yes. Options include endoscopic ultrasound-guided drainage for symptomatic cysts, medications to manage pancreatitis if present, and ongoing monitoring without invasive procedures.
Our Cypress specialists provide a clear diagnosis, individualized care plans, and streamlined access to imaging, endoscopic procedures, and surgical consultations to ensure you receive the right treatment at the right time.
