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Pseudocysts
of the Pancreas
Click
here for images of Pseudocyst of the Pancreas
What
are pseudocysts of the pancreas?
Pseudocysts
of the pancreas are abnormal collections of fluid, dead tissue, pancreatic
enzymes, and blood that can lead to a painful mass in the pancreas. Pseudocysts
usually develop several weeks after an episode of acute pancreatitis (a
sudden, painful inflammation of the pancreas). Alcoholism also contributes
to the risk of pseudocysts of the pancreas. Other, more rare causes include
abdominal trauma and gallbladder disease.
What
are the symptoms of pseudocysts of the pancreas?
The
following are the most common symptoms of pseudocysts of the pancreas.
However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms
may include:
- abdominal
pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- poor
appetite
- weight
loss
- diarrhea
- fever
- detectable,
tender mass in the abdomen
- jaundice
- yellowing of the skin and eyes.
- ascites
- fluid build-up in the abdominal cavity.
The
symptoms of pseudocysts of the pancreas may resemble other medical conditions
or problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
How
are pseudocysts of the pancreas diagnosed?
In
addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic
procedures for pseudocysts of the pancreas may include the following:
- blood
tests
- chest
x-ray - a diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic
energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs
onto film.
- computed
tomography scan (CT or CAT scan) - a diagnostic imaging procedure
using a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional
images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of
the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body,
including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed
than general x-rays.
- ultrasound
(Also called sonography.) - a diagnostic imaging technique, which
uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of
blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal
organs of the abdomen such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys and to
assess blood flow through various vessels.
- endoscopic
retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) - a procedure that
allows the physician to diagnose and treat problems in the liver,
gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. The procedure combines x-ray
and the use of an endoscope - a long, flexible, lighted tube. The
scope is guided through the patient's mouth and throat, then through
the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The physician can examine the
inside of these organs and detect any abnormalities. A tube is then
passed through the scope, and a dye is injected which will allow the
internal organs to appear on an x-ray.
Treatment
for pseudocysts of the pancreas:
Specific
treatment for pseudocysts of the pancreas will be determined by your
physician based on:
- your
age, overall health, and medical history
- extent
of the disease
- your
tolerance of specific medicines, procedures, or therapies
- expectations
for the course of the disease
- your
opinion or preference
The
goal for treatment of a pancreatic pseudocyst is to monitor its growth
and to treat surgically if it grows, or if there is risk for complications.
Treatment
may include:
- close
monitoring by scans (to determine any change in size)
- surgical
drainage of the cyst(s)
If
left untreated or unmonitored, pseudocysts can rupture, causing extreme
pain, blood loss, and infection.
For
more information on this topic refer to http://www.readinghospital.org/content/greystone_1443.asp
Another
great link to check out is http://pathology2.jhu.edu/pancreascyst/index.cfm
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