Pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous tumor and how to diagnose it

Abstract

Objective: To facilitate the understanding of the diagnosis of intraductal papillary mucinous tumors. Literature review: Intraductal papillary mucinous tumors are pancreatic cystic lesions associated with a higher risk of developing pancreatic carcinoma, first described more than four decades ago. Its diagnosis has become easier over the years with the development of imaging tests and the improvement of histological methods, thus allowing the classification of this tumor into its anatomical and histopathological subtypes. However, the diagnosis of this tumor is still a challenge because the vast majority are asymptomatic. Final considerations: Despite their clinical importance, intraductal papillary mucinous tumors remain poorly understood and require more knowledge on the subject, so that there is an appropriate diagnostic investigation. The diagnostic process presents significant challenges that require a thorough examination, knowing how to interpret diagnostic methods and individualization of cases by the team. It is important to recognize the risk factors for this disease and its possible symptoms, when they exist, and thus make use of a good diagnostic test, such as an MRI or a CT scan of the abdomen, in order to identify it and perceive its characteristics as quickly as possible. as early as possible and make an appropriate therapeutic decision, due to its malignant potential.