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Cyst of Pancreas
Pancreatic cysts are fluid-filled sacs that may be benign or precancerous, often arising from inflammation, injury, or genetics. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides comprehensive diagnostics and treatments—from imaging and fluid analysis to minimally invasive drainage and surgery.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Chronic pancreatitis (long-term inflammation of the pancreas)
Pancreatic injury or trauma
Family history of pancreatic cysts
Smoking or heavy alcohol use
Certain inherited conditions
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Pain or pressure in the upper abdomen
Nausea or vomiting
Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
Pain that radiates to the back
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Cyst of the Pancreas (Epigastric Pain)?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms—especially epigastric pain—along with your medical history, alcohol use, family history of pancreatic disease, and other risk factors.
Imaging Tests
Abdominal ultrasound to detect any fluid‐filled sacs in the pancreas.
CT scan or MRI to define cyst size, location, and complexity (e.g., septations or nodules).
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
This minimally invasive test uses a thin endoscope with an ultrasound probe to closely examine the cyst wall, internal structures, and surrounding tissue.
Fluid Analysis
If indicated, a fine‐needle aspiration under EUS guidance is performed to collect cyst fluid for cytology, tumor markers (CEA, CA 19-9), and infection testing.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for pancreatic cysts.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Eat smaller, low-fat meals to ease digestion
Avoid alcohol and tobacco
Stay well-hydrated
Maintain a healthy weight through regular physical activity
2. Medications
Pain relievers to manage discomfort
Pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid digestion
Acid-reducing drugs to prevent stomach irritation
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic drainage: fluid removal using a small camera and tube
Laparoscopic surgery: minimally invasive cyst removal through small incisions
Robot-assisted surgery: precise, image-guided removal for faster recovery
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a pancreatic cyst?
Common causes include inflammation, trauma, and inherited conditions.
How do I know if my cyst is serious?
Imaging and fluid testing help Dr. Nguyen decide if there's a cancer risk.
Do all cysts need surgery?
No. Many small cysts can be watched with follow-up scans every 6 to 12 months.
How long does recovery take after surgery?
Most people go home in a few days and return to normal in 1 to 2 weeks.
Can food or diet shrink the cyst?
Healthy eating can help symptoms but does not make cysts go away.
Are there treatments without surgery?
Yes. Endoscopic drainage is an option for some types of cysts.
Will insurance cover treatment?
Most insurance plans cover testing and treatment. Our team can help check your benefits.
