Microcystic adenoma

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Microcystic Adenoma

Microcystic adenoma, also known as serous cystadenoma, is a type of benign tumor that primarily occurs in the pancreas. It is characterized by the presence of multiple small cysts filled with a clear, serous fluid.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Microcystic adenomas are more common in women than in men, and the incidence increases with age. They account for approximately 1-2% of all pancreatic neoplasms.

Pathology[edit | edit source]

Microcystic adenomas are typically well-circumscribed and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Histologically, they are composed of numerous small cysts lined by a single layer of cuboidal epithelial cells. The cysts are filled with a clear, serous fluid.

Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]

Patients with microcystic adenoma often present with non-specific symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, the tumor may be discovered incidentally during imaging studies for unrelated conditions.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of microcystic adenoma is typically made based on imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These studies can reveal the characteristic appearance of the tumor, which is often described as a "honeycomb" or "sponge-like" pattern due to the presence of numerous small cysts.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The treatment of microcystic adenoma depends on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. In some cases, surgical removal of the tumor may be recommended. However, because these tumors are benign and often slow-growing, a conservative approach with regular monitoring may be appropriate in some cases.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for patients with microcystic adenoma is generally good, as these tumors are benign and do not typically spread to other parts of the body. However, they can cause symptoms and complications if they grow large enough to compress surrounding structures.


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD