Pancreatic pseudocysts are masses of tissue and fluid that form in the abdomen after pancreatitis. They can cause pain, anorexia, and swelling. They are usually caused by acute pancreatitis, and can be diagnosed through imaging scans and biopsies. Treatment may involve draining the cyst via surgery. Regular checkups are recommended to prevent future health problems.
A pancreatic pseudocyst is a mass of tissue and fluid that forms in the abdominal cavity following a bout of pancreatitis. Depending on the size and number of pseudocysts present, an individual may experience abdominal pain, anorexia, or a palpable mass in the lower abdomen. A doctor may choose to leave a pancreatic pseudocyst untreated if it’s not causing adverse symptoms, but a mass leading to significant discomfort may need to be drained via a special surgical procedure.
Pseudocysts are usually the result of acute pancreatitis, a condition most closely associated with alcohol abuse and gallbladder disease. Inflammation and swelling of the pancreas causes blockages in the pancreatic ducts, which lead to the buildup of enzymes, blood, and stray tissue that eventually form a pancreatic pseudocyst. A pseudocyst can also occur with a severe infection, direct trauma to the abdomen, or an autoimmune disease.
A person may have a single pancreatic pseudocyst or multiple smaller masses in the abdominal cavity. Some pseudocysts cause no symptoms and dissolve naturally after a few weeks, although lingering masses can cause chronic pain, tenderness, and internal swelling. A person may also be able to feel the pseudocyst by pressing on their abdomen. Some people find themselves unable to eat, which can lead to anorexia and malnutrition.
A doctor can perform a series of diagnostic imaging scans to detect and diagnose a pancreatic pseudocyst. When the first computed tomography and ultrasound results show abnormal fluid collection, the doctor usually refers the patient to a gastroenterologist for a closer inspection. The specialist might insert an endoscopic camera to get a better view of the pseudocyst and collect a piece of tissue for laboratory analysis. The biopsy results can be used to confirm a diagnosis and rule out other conditions, including cancer.
Small, isolated pseudocysts that don’t appear to be causing any health problems are often left alone. It is possible, however, for a pancreatic pseudocyst to become infected or rupture if left untreated. A suspected pseudocyst can be drained by inserting a long needle connected to a catheter directly into the abdomen. With the help of an endoscope, a surgeon locates the mass, pierces it, and drains the fluid into the catheter. More invasive surgical procedures may be required if multiple pseudocysts exist.
After surgery, the patient is usually asked to schedule regular checkups with their gastroenterologist. A pancreatic pseudocyst is unlikely to return, but an underlying infection or pancreatitis may still persist. The specialist can conduct imaging tests and prescribe antibiotics as needed to help prevent future health problems.
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