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Objective: To determine the sonographic findings that distinguish borderline ovarian tumors (BOT) from both benign and invasive malignant tumors, thus allowing conservative treatment and laparoscopic management of these tumors., Methods: We reviewed retrospectively transvaginal sonograms of 33 women who, when evaluated further by surgery and histology, were found to have BOT. Twenty-three were premenopausal and 10 were postmenopausal (mean age +/- SD, 45.8 +/- 15.7 years). For each mass, size and morphological features and power Doppler characteristics were evaluated. We compared these findings with those of 337 patients with benign ovarian tumors and those of 82 patients with invasive malignant ovarian tumors. Patients with dermoid cysts were not included in the study., Results: Of the 33 BOT, 15 were mucinous and 18 were serous cystadenomas. The presence of papillae, defined as a small number of solid tissue projections, 1-15 mm in height and 1-10 mm in width (base) and length (base), into the cyst cavity from the cyst wall, was significantly more frequent in BOT (48%) than it was in benign (4%) and invasive (4%) malignant tumors. Intracystic solid tissue (> 15 mm in height or > 10 mm in width or length) was observed in 48% of invasive malignant masses but in only 18% of BOT and in 7% of benign tumors (P < 0.001). No sonographically unilocular, hypoechoic, smooth-walled adnexal cysts were invasively malignant but three unilocular cysts with a diameter of > 6 cm were serous BOT. Although close attention was paid to the cyst wall at ultrasound examination we did not observe in these three cysts the very small papillae which were found at histological analysis., Conclusions: The most frequent diagnostic feature on imaging BOT is the presence of papillae within the cyst. However, neither papillae nor other sonographic features constituted highly sensitive sonographic markers of BOT., (Copyright (c) 2004 ISUOG.)

Objective: To describe the ultrasound and MR appearance of paraovarian cystadenomas., Methods: We reviewed retrospectively the radiologic findings in 7 patients with surgically proven paraovarian cystic neoplasms, including 6 serous cystadenomas and 1 borderline seromucinous cystadenoma. All had ultrasound and 4 had MR preoperatively., Results: On ultrasound, the ipsilateral ovary was visualized in six cases, in contact with the cyst in five and separate from it in one. On MR, the ovary and the cyst were visible in four cases, in contact in three and separate in one. Internal papillary excrescences, present at pathology in all cysts, were seen in five on ultrasound and in four on MR., Conclusion: Although the extraovarian location of these neoplasms is difficult to determine preoperatively by ultrasound and MR, these imaging modalities are more reliable in predicting the histology of these rare lesions and differentiating them from simple paraovarian cysts.

Patients who present with signs and symptoms suggesting a pancreatic neoplasm typically undergo initial imaging with transabdominal ultrasound or CT. When a pancreatic mass or fullness is identified, it may represent an inflammatory mass, benign process, or malignancy. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is performed commonly to further characterize the lesion, obtain a tissue diagnosis, and for staging. This article reviews the role of EUS for the diagnosis and staging of pancreatic tumors.

Objective: To describe an additional maneuver during sonography for ovarian torsion and to assess its diagnostic value., Methods: During a period of about 2 years 6 months, 21 patients with acute or intermittent lower abdominal pain who had an ovarian mass and an extraovarian mass suggestive of a twisted vascular pedicle on sonography were studied. The gray scale features of the ovarian mass were recorded. The presence of a twisted vascular pedicle was evaluated. Its location and gray scale features were noted. The probe was moved to and fro along the axis of the pedicle, and the presence of a whirlpool sign was evaluated. The same procedure was repeated on a color Doppler study., Results: A twisted pedicle with a whirlpool sign was seen in all 21 patients. Ovarian torsion was confirmed in all 20 patients who underwent surgery. The last patient was pregnant and did well with conservative treatment. Hemorrhagic infarction or early hemorrhage of the ovary or ovarian mass was seen in all 8 patients who did not show flow in the twisted pedicle on the color Doppler study and in 2 patients who showed flow in the artery in the proximal part of the pedicle. Of the 6 patients who showed flow in the artery alone, the ovary was removed in 4, and all had hemorrhagic infarction or early hemorrhage. The ovary was viable in all 5 patients in whom flow was seen in both the artery and vein., Conclusions: A positive whirlpool sign in the twisted vascular pedicle of the ovary is the most definitive sign of ovarian torsion. Absence of blood flow in the twisted pedicle and visualization of the flow in the artery alone are predictive of nonviability of the ovary.

Isolated torsion of the Fallopian tube is a rare occurrence, which generally presents in the reproductive age group. It is difficult to diagnose on imaging and the diagnosis is established after laparoscopy. This report describes an unusual presentation of an uncommon condition in a perimenopausal 48-year-old woman who presented with lower abdominal discomfort. The clinical and imaging features led to a suspicion of ovarian neoplasm. Diagnostic laparoscopy revealed torsion of a left sided hydrosalpinx with benign serous cystadenoma of the left ovary. Torsion of the Fallopian tube is a rare event in the perimenopausal age group. It should however be included in the differential diagnosis of lower abdominal pain and recognition of imaging features may allow early surgical intervention.

Background: Benign pancreatic serous cystadenoma usually is morphologically distinguishable from mucinous cystadenomas, which require resection because of their malignant potential. A macrocystic variant of serous cystadenoma recently has been described, rendering this important distinction more difficult. The aim of this study was to determine the EUS and tumor marker characteristics of mucinous cystadenoma compared with macrocystic serous cystadenomas., Methods: Medical records for consecutive patients seen between 1995 and 2002, with a histopathologic diagnosis of mucinous cystadenoma or macrocystic serous cystadenoma after surgery, who had undergone a detailed EUS examination, including EUS-guided FNA, were retrospectively reviewed., Results: A resection specimen was available for 32 mucinous cystadenomas and 9 macrocystic serous cystadenomas. No significant differences were observed with regard to clinical data (age, gender, presence of symptoms), lesion size, and location within the pancreas. All mucinous cystadenomas had a discernible cyst wall (thickened, 66%; focal parietal nodules, 25%) compared with 56% of macrocystic serous cystadenomas (p<0.0001). A thick echo content also was more frequent in mucinous cystadenoma (56% vs. 11%; p=0.04; statistical significance removed by the Bonferroni correction). Microcysts were only observed in macrocystic serous cystadenomas (44%; p=0.0008). The combination of a cyst wall that is thickened and the absence of microcysts had a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 78% for the diagnosis of mucinous cystadenoma compared with macrocystic serous cystadenoma. Although intracystic carbohydrate-associated antigen 72-4 and mucins M1 were non-discriminatory, low carcinoembryonic antigen (<5 ng/mL) and carbohydrate-associated antigen 19-9 (<50,000 U/mL) values were found in macrocystic serous lesions (respectively, 100% and 100%; p=0.0002 and p=0.0002)., Conclusions: Although there is considerable overlap, helpful EUS characteristics that differentiate mucinous cystadenoma from macrocystic serous cystadenoma include a thick cyst wall and microcysts. These features, coupled with analysis of aspirated fluid for tumor markers (especially carcinoembryonic antigen), should help to confirm the diagnosis.

Differentiation between malignant and benign parovarian tumors is necessary before any surgery is planned, because the postoperative spread of ovarian cancers is well documented. Both malignant and benign parovarian tumors may contain intracystic projections, so their presence is not a differentiating factor. We describe the cases of 2 patients with parovarian cystadenomas that were evaluated using sonography, MRI, and histopathology in an attempt to begin to identify the sonographic characteristics of such lesions and correlate them with MRI and histopathologic findings. In both cases, sonography revealed a cystic mass that contained multiple small intracystic mural nodules, most of which were associated with the "Chinese hat" artifact. MRI findings confirmed the presence of the cystic masses and the nodules. Histopathologic findings confirmed the diagnosis of serous cystadenoma arising in a parovarian cyst; the intracystic nodules consisted of fibrotic tissue covered with a single layer of epithelium. Thus, the results of all 3 evaluations correlated well. This characteristic sonographic appearance may be useful in making an accurate preoperative diagnosis of parovarian cystadenomas., (Copyright 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Context: Serous cystadenoma of the pancreas and mucinous tumors of the vermiform appendix are rare. To our knowledge, the simultaneous occurrence of these two tumors has not been reported., Case Report: Here, we report an adult female who presented with signs and symptoms of appendicitis. A preoperative CT scan confirmed the findings of appendicitis and also showed an incidental large mass in the head of the pancreas. The patient underwent uneventful appendectomy. Her pathology revealed an acutely inflamed appendix with a benign mucinous cystadenoma at the tip. Several months after her recovery, a Whipple procedure was performed. Pathologic examination showed a 5x5 cm serous cystadenoma of the head of the pancreas without evidence of malignancy. Two years later, the patient is alive and well without evidence of tumor recurrence., Conclusions: Cystadenomas of the pancreas and appendix are unusual and their simultaneous occurrence is a rare event.

Today, computed tomography (CT) is the most commonly used imaging method in the assessment of pancreatic tumors. The sensitivity of CT in detection of pancreatic tumors is more than 90% when direct and indirect signs are used for diagnosis. However, the potential to differentiate exocrine (non-endocrine) tumors of the pancreas is limited. CT is used in these lesions to perform an adequate staging, especially for surgical purposes. The operative resectability, primarily in regard to vessels, lymph node metastasis and hepatic metastasis, has to be assessed. Keeping in mind the limitations of this macromorphological imaging procedure, CT has the best reproducibility and overall accuracy of all imaging methods. Using multislice CT it is possible to perform non-axial reconstructions with high resolution. In functional endocrine tumors, multislice spiral CT will enhance the diagnostic capabilities, since the whole organ can be examined in thin slices, with high resolution during the rather short arterial phase of the contrast medium. Since some endocrine tumors are hypovascular, a scan during the portovenous phase is recommended too. The diagnosis of benign pancreatic tumors, like serous cystadenoma and pancreatic lipomas, is addressed. The most important pseudotumors of the pancreas are discussed., (Copyright 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel)

Because of recent progress in imaging modalities, the opportunities to detect pancreatic cystic neoplasms are increasing. However, serous cystadenoma is still uncommon. We report a case of serous cystadenoma treated by laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. A 52-year-old woman presented with mild upper abdominal pain. Dynamic computed tomography (CT) revealed a solitary cystic lesion 3 cm in diameter in the pancreatic tail. Endoscopic ultrasound showed a honeycomb pattern, indicative of serous cystadenoma. To obtain the final diagnosis of the tumor, we performed laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. A histopathological study showed microcystadenoma with no evidence of malignancy.

Objective: Surgical resection is indicated in potentially malignant pancreatic cystic neoplasms. Drainage operations are performed in large (5-6 cm) and/or symptomatic pseudocysts. Misdiagnosis results in a considerable delay in an appropriate treatment. Our aims were to compare clinical, morphological, biochemical features of cystic neoplasms and pseudocysts, in which diagnosis of cystic neoplasm was suspected preoperatively, and to determine characteristics, which could predict the misdiagnosis of cystic neoplasms as "pseudocysts"., Material and Methods: One hundred and thirty four patients were operated because of pancreatis cystic lesions (22 cystic neoplasms and 112 pseudocysts) between January 1999 and May 2004. Two groups of patients were evaluated retrospectively. Group I included 22 (10 serous and 8 mucinous cystoadenomas, 3 mucinous cystadenocarcinomas, 1 solid papillary tumor) resected neoplasms. Group II included 11 patients in whom neoplasm was suspected during investigation, but definitive diagnosis of pseudocyst was established. Clinical manifestation, morphologic characteristics and data of instrumental investigations were also compared. Preoperative and postoperative diagnoses were compared with histopathological findings., Results: Women predominated in group I (67.2%) and men in group II (81.2%). Group I patients were older (mean age 57.9+/-14.55 versus 49.27+/-10.07 years). All pseudocysts were symptomatic. Two (9.1%) incidental cystic neoplasms and 2 drainage operations were performed previously because of misdiagnosed "pseudocysts" in other hospitals. Abdominal pain, 81.8% and 100%, and abdominal mass, 31.8% and 54.4%, were recorded most frequently, group I and group II respectively. Neoplasms (median diameter 59.6 mm) were mainly located in pancreatic head (31.8%) and body (36.4%). Most of pseudocysts (median diameter 71.1 mm) were located in pancreatic head (45.5%). Diagnostic sensitivity of ultrasonography (86.4%) and computed tomography scan (84.2%) was higher in group I than in group II (63.6% and 77.8%). Two serous oligocystic and 1 mucinous cystoadenomas were misdiagnosed as "pseudocyst" preoperatively. In one case malignancy of mucinous tumor diagnosed only postoperatively., Conclusions: Differentiating serous and mucinous cystoadenomas from pseudocysts may be difficult. Malignant neoplasms may be undetermined preoperatively. Resection should always be performed in instances where findings cannot be clearly identified.

Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder characterized by extensively vascularized tumors and cysts in specific organs. Angiogenesis is a striking future of VHL disease with its characteristic cysts and well-vascularized tumors. The hypervascular nature of VHL lesions has been linked to the overproduciton of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) through increased expression of hypoxia inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1alpha). Here we describe a rare case of VHL disease with esophageal and gastric varices due to arterioportal shunt in a serous cystadenoma of the pancreas, which, upon immunohistochemical examination, exhibited HIF-1alpha and VEGF expression. Rupture of esophageal varices was successfully treated with endoscopic injection sclerotherapy.

Objective: Macrocystic serous adenoma is a rare benign pancreatic neoplasm, recently described in the pathology literature. We describe the CT and MR imaging features in a series of five consecutive pathologically proven cases., Materials and Methods: Of seven cases fulfilling the pathology criteria for macrocystic serous adenoma over an 11-year period, five patients underwent preoperative CT and MR imaging at our institution. In addition to the clinical presentation and pathologic features of the tumor, the following CT and MR imaging features were reviewed: size and location; wall thickness; internal septations; and presence of mural nodules, papillary projections, or calcifications., Results: All patients but one were women (age range, 36-78 years; mean age, 48.6 years). The sizes of the tumors ranged from 1.5 to 5.0 cm (mean, 3.1 cm). Three (60%) of five tumors were located in the pancreatic head. The wall measured less than 2 mm in four lesions and 4 mm in one. No mural nodules, papillary projections, or calcifications were present. Lesions were unilocular (n = 3) or bilocular (n = 2). Excellent correlation of imaging features with gross pathology was observed., Conclusion: On CT and MR imaging, the macrocystic variant of serous adenoma typically appears as a small (< 5 cm), uni- or bilocular cyst with a thin (< 2 mm) wall that lacks mural nodules or calcifications. The imaging appearance of macrocystic serous adenoma is distinctly different from that of microcystic serous cystadenoma, but the imaging appearance of macrocystic serous adenoma is indistinguishable from mucinous cystadenoma and cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas.

Background: The differential diagnosis in pancreatic cystic lesions is often difficult despite the availability of various modern imaging modalities. This study assessed the role of EUS in the following: (1) discrimination of pseudocysts from pancreatic cystic tumors, (2) differential diagnosis between serous cystadenoma and mucinous cystic tumor, and (3) prediction of accompanying malignancy in intraductal papillary mucinous tumor., Methods: EUS findings in 75 patients with pancreatic cystic lesions (58 cystic tumors, 17 pseudocysts) were evaluated. In the comparison of pseudocysts and cystic tumors, the latter included intraductal papillary mucinous tumor, mucinous cystic tumors, and serous cystadenomas, but not solid-pseudopapillary tumors., Results: In univariate analysis, pseudocysts exhibited echogenic debris and parenchymal changes more often than cystic tumors did (respectively, 29% vs. 6%, p < 0.05; and 65% vs. 4%, p < 0.001). In contrast, septa and mural nodules were found more frequently in cystic tumors than pseudocysts (respectively, 69% vs. 12%, p < 0.001; 56% vs. 12%, p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed that parenchymal changes (odds ratio [OR] = 83.59; p < 0.01); septa (OR = 30.75; p < 0.05); and mural nodules (OR = 21.38; p < 0.05) were independent predictors of differentiation between pseudocysts and cystic tumors. Serous cystadenoma exhibited diverse EUS features, as well as a honeycomb appearance. Mural nodules were found more often in mucinous cystic tumors than in serous cystadenomas (p < 0.05). There were no factors that predicted malignancy in intraductal papillary mucinous tumor., Conclusions: EUS is a useful complementary imaging method for differentiation of pancreatic cystic lesions.

From the data that are currently available, it appears that EUS can help to reliably distinguish between the majority of benign and neoplastic cystic lesions. In equivocal cases, or cases where a high suspicion for malignancy exists, the use of EUS-guided FNA for obtaining cytology and cystic fluid for analysis of various tumor markers, gives the best diagnostic yield. Occasionally, despite a complete evaluation of a cystic mass, the cyst type may not be determined. The decision regarding further management of these lesions should be based on a combination of factors including symptoms, cyst size, EUS morphology and the patient's overall medical condition. In the case of symptomatic, large, or suspicious lesions where the patient is a good surgical candidate, surgical resection should be performed. However, it becomes more difficult in the case of asymptomatic, small cystic lesions where the patient is not an optimal surgical candidate. In the latter scenario, applying EUS criteria for follow-up of small pancreatic cystic lesions as reported by Ikeda et al can help in the decision-making process. In this study, Ikeda et al reported on 31 patients with pancreatic cystic lesions of unknown etiology that were followed-up with semi-annual EUS exams over a 3-year period. In 87.1% of these lesions, the size was less than 2 cm. Their criteria included 1) a clear thin wall, 2) smooth contour, 3) round or oval shape, 4) no septum or nodules, 5) asymptomatic clinical presentation, and 6) no findings of chronic pancreatitis. The cystic lesions remained stable in 30/31 patients, and only one lesion increased in size. This lesion was resected and was found to be a retention cyst. We are optimistic that the role of EUS in the management of cystic neoplasms will continue to evolve and expand as future studies evaluate the clinical utility of imaging modalities for the optimal practice algorithm for managing these neoplasms.

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the usefulness of dynamic sonography in the characterization of pancreatic tumors., Materials and Methods: IV contrast-enhanced pancreatic sonography (dynamic sonography) with Levovist was performed in 43 patients with pancreatic mass lesions (32 with pancreatic adenocarcinomas, four with inflammatory pancreatic masses, three with islet cell tumors, two with serous cystadenomas, one with a solid and cystic tumor, and one with metastatic pancreatic cancer). We calculated a contrast index using a time-intensity curve: contrast index equals elevation of intensity in the tumor divided by elevation of intensity in the pancreatic parenchyma. We classified the tumors into three groups according to the contrast index: a slightly enhanced group (contrast index < 0.5), a moderately enhanced group (contrast index = 0.5-1.5), and a well-enhanced group (contrast index > 1.5), and we compared these results with those from dynamic CT., Results: The contrast indexes of 32 adenocarcinomas, four inflammatory pancreatic masses, three islet cell tumors, two serous cystadenomas, one solid and cystic tumor, and one metastatic tumor were, respectively, 0.12 +/- 0.095 (mean +/- SD), 0.54 +/- 0.420, 1.74 +/- 0.555, 1.09 +/- 1.380, 1.67, and 2.07. Thirty-five tumors, including all 32 adenocarcinomas, were classified in the slightly enhanced group, three were classified in the moderately enhanced group, and five were classified in the well-enhanced group. In 93% (40/43) of tumors, the grade of enhancement on dynamic sonography was closely correlated with the grade of enhancement on dynamic CT., Conclusion: Dynamic sonography can assist in the characterization of pancreatic tumors.

Pancreas divisum is an embryologic anomaly of the pancreas that is characterized by a lack of fusion of the dorsal and ventral pancreatic ducts. It is rarely associated with pancreatic neoplasms. We report herein a rare association of pancreas divisum and serous cystadenoma of the pancreas. A 46-year-old Japanese woman presented with epigastralgia. Ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography revealed a multilocular cystic mass, measuring 7 cm in diameter, with a central stellate scar, in the body and tail of the pancreas. Angiography demonstrated a relatively hypervascular mass, suppressing the splenic vein. No arterial encasement was evident. Endoscopic retrograde pancreatography through the major papilla demonstrated only the duct of Wirsung; cannulation into the minor papilla was unsuccessful. In addition, CT showed a mildly dilated main pancreatic duct draining into the minor papilla. Distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy were performed, with the tentative diagnosis being serous cystic neoplasm of the pancreas, possibly malignant, and pancreas divisum. The cut surface of the resected specimen had a honeycomb-like appearance and the specimen consisted of multiple cysts of various sizes. Histopathological examination showed multiple cysts lined by a single layer of flat or cuboidal epithelial cells with glycogen in the cytoplasm. There was no evidence of malignancy. The histopathological diagnosis was serous cystadenoma of the pancreas. To the best of our knowledge, only three cases of serous cystadenoma of the pancreas associated with pancreas divisum have been reported. We report the fourth case of such an association, and briefly review the literature.

Serous cystadenoma of the pancreas is an uncommon neoplasm that occasionally exhibits papillary differentiation. The cytomorphologic structure of pancreatic serous cystadenoma has been rarely described, and, to our knowledge, such papillary morphologic structure has never been reported on fine-needle aspiration cytologic examination. We present a case of serous cystadenoma of the pancreas in a 77-year-old woman. Endoscopic ultrasonography showed a well-demarcated solid/cystic mass in the midbody of the pancreas, suggestive of solid pseudopapillary tumor. Aspiration cytologic examination, performed under endoscopic ultrasound guidance, showed a predominantly papillary epithelial neoplasm consistent with the radiologic impression. Gross and histologic examination of the excised specimen revealed a pancreatic serous cystadenoma with multifocal papillae. This case illustrates the cytomorphologic structure of serous cystadenoma that presents with prominent papillary differentiation on aspiration cytologic examination. The unusual cytologic appearance of this tumor introduces significant diagnostic challenges to the pathologist. Serous cystadenoma must be included in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic neoplasms with papillary morphologic structure as evaluated by fine-needle aspiration cytologic examination.

Objective: To describe the sonographic characteristics of ovarian cystadenofibromas., Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 23 ovarian tumors histopathologically confirmed as ovarian cystadenofibromas that were preoperatively evaluated by transvaginal color Doppler sonography., Results: In all cases the mass was predominantly cystic. Septations appeared in 30.4% of the tumors. Papillary projections or solid nodules appeared in 56.5% of the cases. The most frequent appearance was a unilocular complex cystic mass. In 47.8% of the tumors, vascularization was detected, having a typical pattern of peripheral vascularization with scattered vessels of high blood flow impedance., Conclusions: We have described the sonographic spectrum of findings of ovarian cystadenofibromas. The most frequent appearance was a unilocular cystic mass with gross papillary projections or solid nodules. In almost half of the tumors, vascularization could be detected.

A 42-year-old woman with a cystic lesion in the head of the pancreas was evaluated by using abdominal ultrasonography, a computed tomographic scan, magnetic resonance imaging and endoscopic retrograde pancreatography. Multiple cystic lesions, 5 cm in diameter, which had papillary protrusion inside the cyst in the head of the pancreas and had the communication between the cysts and pancreatic duct, were determined. Pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed under the diagnosis of mucinous cystic neoplasm of the pancreas. Although the cut surface of the tumor showed a macrocystic tumor of 3 cm in diameter, part of the cyst wall was cavernous. A histopathological examination showed single-layered cuboidal cells, which lead to the diagnosis as being serous cystadenoma of the pancreas. Serous cystadenoma is a rare, almost benign pancreatic tumor. The macrocystic subtype of serous cystadenoma is even more rare. We describe a patient who had this macrocystic subtype of serous cystadenoma with a communication between the cyst and pancreatic duct. This case illustrates the difficulty in the diagnosis of cystic lesions in the pancreas, and might support the single category of cystic lesions of the pancreas.

Purpose: To present the imaging findings of serous cystadenoma (SCA) and discuss the main problems of differential diagnosis with other cystic pancreatic lesions., Materials and Methods: 55 cases of SCA were reviewed; all the lesions proved to be benign at pathology. 35 tumors were evaluated with Ultrasonography (US), 49 with Computed Tomography (CT), and 15 with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)., Results: Among the patients who underwent either demolitive (47) or derivative (3) interventions, two different morpho-structural patterns were identified: microcystic (37), and oligocystic (13). The diagnosis of SCA, possible in the presence of microcystic pattern, was achieved in 63% of cases by US (22/35), in 63% of cases by CT (31/49), and in 73% of cases by MRI (11/15). In 12 patients evaluated with all the imaging modalities, the combined information allowed a correct diagnosis in 10 cases (83%). The 13 oligocystic tumors were almost always undistinguishable from other cystic masses of the pancreas., Conclusions: The diagnosis of SCA can be considered certain if a microcystic pattern is detected. A correct diagnosis is not achievable in the presence of oligocystic architecture. MRI is the best imaging modality in characterizing this tumor.

We report a case of microcystic (glycogen-rich) adenoma of the whole pancreas with coexistent pancreatic low-grade malignant islet cell tumor in a 29-year-old woman. She complained of nausea, vomiting, and growing abdominal mass. Abdominal computed tomography showed multiple cysts in the whole pancreas and a calcified solid mass in the pancreatic head. A Whipple's operation and total pancreatectomy with splenectomy was performed to treat pancreatic cystic neoplasm. The pancreas was entirely replaced by variable-sized, multilocular cysts, which were lined by a flattened-to-cuboidal glycogen-rich epithelium. Furthermore, in the head of the pancreas, a focal yellowish solid mass showed a positive reaction for chromogranin A and neuron-specific enolase. Careful examination of the pancreas is warranted in cases of microcystic adenoma to rule out a possible coexistent pancreatic malignancy.

Objective: To study outcome of pregnancy complicated by ovarian cysts, clinical behavior of functional cysts, efficiency of conservative and operative management during pregnancy and labor., Material and Methods: Twenty-three women with diagnosed ovarian cysts less than 5-6 cm in the early first trimester of pregnancy were followed by a two year period (1999-2000). Relationship between the sonographically change of cysts and pregnancy outcome was determinate., Results: In a group of 23 women with ovarian cysts, 16 were successful pregnancies as followed: 12 ended in normal vaginal deliveries and 4 delivered by cesarean (1 obstetric indicated; 2 persisted cysts--serous and mucinous custadenoma; 1 after operated in 18 gest. Week border line cystadenoma). Of the last 7 pregnancies were operated and 3 electively terminated (1 blighted ovum and 2 missed abortions)., Conclusion: Ovarian cyst in first trimester of pregnancy with maximum size 5-6 cm usually were reached until the 7-8 week, maybe followed by functional corpus luteal cysts, involuated until 14 gest. Week, rarely persisting and isn't expected to grow after 14 gest. Week or to cause complication in pregnancy and labor.

Cystic tumors of the pancreas have become increasingly prevalent. In large series, more than 90% of pancreatic cystic neoplasms are accounted for by mucinous cystadenomas and cystadenocarcinomas, serous cystadenomas, and intraductal papillary mucinous tumors. Differentiating cystic neoplasms from pseudocysts can almost always be accomplished by clinical and radiological means, but in doubtful cases, when observation is contemplated, or when it is important to determine preoperatively the type of cystic neoplasm, cyst fluid analysis is useful. This can be readily obtained by endoscopic ultrasound, and analysis of enzymes, viscosity, cytology and a variety of tumor markers allows for a better differential diagnosis.

An increasing number of cystic neoplasms of the pancreas have been detected with the progress of radiologic modalities. These cystic tumors include solid pseudopapillary tumor, serous cystadenoma, mucinous cystic tumor, and intraductal papillary mucinous tumor. The latter two lesions have been reported under a clinical nick-name of 'mucin-hypersecreting' cystic tumor. In the diagnosis of cystic neoplasms of the pancreas, clinical findings such as age, sex and location of lesion were informative. US and CT were useful to check up the presence of cystic lesion of the pancreas. ERCP was useful to examine the cystic lesion but it has some limitations. ERCP did not visualize the cystic lesion when the lesion was filled with excessive mucin. MRI (T2-weighted image) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography were powerful to display the entire cystic lesion. In the assessment of grade of malignancy, EUS was valuable to demonstrate the precise internal structures such as mural nodule. In this communication, radiologic diagnosis of cystic tumor of the pancreas was briefly reviewed focussing on 'mucin-hypersecreting' tumor of the pancreas.

Objective: Our purpose was to evaluate the risk of malignancy in surgically removed ovarian cysts that were characterized before the operation as unilocular according to transvaginal ultrasonography., Study Design: This prospective analysis included 927 premenopausal women and 377 postmenopausal women operated on at 2 European university hospitals between January 1992 and December 1997. On the basis of ultrasonographic findings the cysts were characterized either as echo-free, without solid parts or papillary formations (group 1), or as having echogenic cyst content, with solid parts or papillary formations (group 2). Ultrasonographic and macroscopic appearances of the cysts were compared with histopathologic diagnosis., Results: In group 1, in premenopausal women 3 of 413 cysts (0.73%) proved to be borderline or malignant, and in postmenopausal women 4 of 247 cysts (1.6%) proved to be borderline or malignant. The figures for cysts in group 2 were 11 of 514 cysts (2.1%) and 13 of 130 cysts (10.0%), respectively. It was not possible to differentiate by transvaginal ultrasonography between benign, borderline, and malignant cysts when solid parts or papillary formations were visualized., Conclusions: This study confirmed that the risk of malignancy associated with unilocular echo-free cysts (group 1) was low. Serial ultrasonographic follow-up should therefore be the standard procedure with unilocular echo-free cysts <50 mm in diameter. In cysts with a mean diameter of >50 mm, papillary formations or solid parts may be missed by transvaginal ultrasonography. The risk for malignancy in cysts containing papillary formations or solid parts (group 2) was 3 to 6 times higher than that in unilocular echo-free cysts.

Background: Serous cystadenoma of the pancreas is generally considered as having no malignant potential. Thus, of clinical importance is a differential diagnosis of this neoplasm from other solid tumors that are often malignant., Results: We report a case of microcystic serous cystadenoma of the pancreas. Abdominal ultrasonography, computed tomography, and endoscopic ultrasonography showed a solid mass in the body of the pancreas with a diameter of 15 mm, but magnetic resonance imaging revealed it as a unilocular cystic lesion. Histological examinations on the surgically resected tissue specimen showed a honeycombed tumor with innumerable tiny cysts appearing grossly as a solid mass. The discrepant finding between magnetic resonance imaging and other imaging modalities observed in this case is suggestive of and might be specific to microcystic serous cystadenoma of the pancreas., Conclusions: Magnetic resonance imaging is a mandatory modality to identify pancreatic serous cystadenoma that contains no visible cystic compartments on computed tomography and ultrasonography.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether CT can be used to distinguish serous cystadenomas from mucinous cystadenomas or cystadenocarcinomas of the pancreas and play an enhanced role in patient triage and treatment., Materials and Methods: A blinded retrospective analysis of CT scans from 50 patients with pathologically proven primary cystic pancreatic neoplasms was performed independently by three radiologists. Using classic CT criteria as reported in the literature, each tumor was categorized as definitely serous, mucinous, or indeterminate. Tumor location, size, presence of calcification, and size of largest cyst were recorded. Data for each reviewer were analyzed independently. Consensus data were then subjected to multivariate logistic regression analysis., Results: The ability of our reviewers to diagnose serous neoplasms ranged from 23% to 41%. Eight mucinous neoplasms were mistaken for serous tumors by two of the three reviewers. When consensus between at least two of the three reviewers was used for diagnosis, 27% of serous neoplasms were correctly diagnosed and all of the mucinous tumors were correctly identified as uncertain or mucinous, yielding the same clinical end point. For multivariate logistic regression analysis, a cyst smaller than 2 cm had a statistically significant association (p = 0.005) with serous tumors, and the presence of peripheral tumoral calcification had a statistically significant association (p = 0.01) with mucinous tumors., Conclusion: There is significant variability in the CT appearance of serous and mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas, making CT an insensitive tool for differentiating these tumors. All tumors with peripheral calcifications were identified as mucinous neoplasms.

The case of a 38-year-old man with an unusual type of serous cystadenoma of the pancreas is reported. A multilocular cystic tumor in the head of the pancreas was detected on abdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography. On endoscopic ultrasonography, the major cysts ranged from 2.0 to 4.5 cm in size. In addition to these large cysts, a few small cysts were detected. Based on these findings, this tumor was diagnosed as a macrocystic type serous cystadenoma. Because endoscopic retrograde pancreatogram showed a compression of the main pancreatic duct around the tumor, and because the size of the tumor had been increasing over a 3-year period, surgical intervention was performed. The resected tumor consisted of macrocysts, with a few small cysts, and was histologically diagnosed as serous cystadenoma. Endoscopic ultrasonography appears to provide an excellent inside image of this unusual tumor, and because of its ability to detect small cystic lesions clearly, it could be useful in the diagnosis of macrocystic serous cystadenoma.

Purpose: The purpose of this work was to evaluate the capabilities of CT to accurately characterize cystic tumors of the pancreas., Method: Two observers retrospectively evaluated the CT exams of 100 cystic masses of the pancreas, with pathological confirmation. The two observers, blinded about clinical information and the final diagnosis, tried to categorize the lesions according to well established morphologic features. Statistical analysis was performed to measure the agreement between each radiologist and the consensus diagnosis and to evaluate the usefulness of certain CT findings in differentiating one type of cystic pancreatic neoplasm from another., Results: Serous cystadenoma was better diagnosed by CT [Youden misclassification index (Ymi) = 0.72] than mucinous cystic tumor (Ymi = 0.44) and solid pseudopapillary tumor (cystic variant) (Ymi = 0.47)., Conclusion: As patients with previous history of pancreatitis were excluded from the study, CT findings allowed correct characterization of only 60% of cystic pancreatic masses. Among the remaining 40%, 15-20% of the wrong diagnoses could not be corrected by means of CT, given the patterns shown by the tumors. In 20-25% of the cases, a nonspecific diagnosis of cystic mass was made.

Aim: To determine whether three-dimensional power Doppler can improve the recognition of pelvic tumor morphology and angiogenesis., Methods: Using this technique we analyzed 180 adnexal masses and 110 uterine lesions. Tumor volume, morphology, and vascularity were evaluated in each patient. Irregular and randomly dispersed vessels with complex branching depicted by comprehensive three dimensional display were suggestive of pelvic malignancy, while linear-like vascular morphology, single vessel arrangement and regular branching were typical for benign structures., Results: Addition of qualitative analysis of vascular architecture of adnexal tumor to morphological parameters reached 96.15% sensitivity and 98.73% specificity. When endometrial lesions were prospectively analyzed, sensitivity and specificity were 91.67% and 98.49%, respectively. Because the lowest positive predictive value of 16.67% was obtained for myometrial lesions, this method should not be advised for their eva luation., Conclusion: Good results achieved by three dimensional ultrasound can be explained by improved recognition of the pelvic lesion anatomy, characterization of the surface features, detection of the tumor infiltration, and precise depiction of the size and volume. Three dimensional power Doppler imaging can detect structural abnormalities of the malignant tumor vessels, such as arteriovenous shunts, microaneurysms, tumoral lakes, disproportional calibration, coiling, and dichotomous branching. Therefore it enhances and facilitates the morphologic and functional evaluation of both benign and malignant pelvic tumors.

Objectives: To assess the feasibility of imaging low-velocity blood flow in adnexal masses by transvaginal three-dimensional power Doppler sonography, to analyze three-dimensional power Doppler sonography data sets with a new computer-assisted method and to test the reproducibility of the technique., Methods: A commercially available 5-MHz Combison 530 ultrasound system was used to perform three-dimensional power Doppler sonography transvaginally. A cube (= volume of interest) was defined enclosing the vessels of the cyst and the Cartesian characteristics were stored on a hard disk. This cube was analyzed using specially designed software. Five indices representing vascularization (the vascularization index (VI) or blood flow (the flow index (FI)) or both (the vascularization-flow index (VFI)) were calculated. The intraobserver repeatability of cube definition and scan repetition was assessed using Hartley's test for homogeneous variances. Interobserver agreement was assessed by the Pearson correlation coefficient., Results: Imaging of vessels with low-velocity blood flow by three-dimensional power Doppler sonography and cube definition was possible in all adnexal massed studied. In some cases even induced non-vascular flow related to endometriosis was detected. The calculated F value with intraobserver repeated Cartesian file-saving ranged from 0 to 18.8, with intraobserver scan repetition from 4.74 to 24.8 for VI, FI 1, FI 2 and VFI 1; for VFI 2 the calculated F value was 64. The interobserver correlation coefficient ranged between 0.83 and 0.92 for VI, FI 1, FI 2 and VFI 1; for VFI 2 the correlation coefficient was less than 0.75., Conclusion: Vessels with low-velocity blood flow can be imaged using three-dimensional power Doppler sonography. Induced non-vascular flow was detected in endometriotic cyst fluid. Three-dimensional power Doppler sonography combined with the cube method gave reproducible information for all indices except VFI 2. These indices might prove to be a new predictor in all fields of neoangiogenesis. The clinical relevance remains to be determined.

Background: Cystic tumor of the pancreas has been investigated by a variety of imaging techniques. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is being widely used as a non-invasive diagnostic modality for investigation of the biliary tree and pancreatic duct system. The purpose of this study was to compare MRCP images with those of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and computed tomography (CT) in order to clarify the diagnostic efficacy of MRCP for cystic tumor of the pancreas., Methods: We retrospectively studied 15 patients with cystic tumor of the pancreas that had been surgically resected and histopathologically confirmed. There were five cases of intraductal papillary adenocarcinoma, five of intraductal papillary adenoma, two of serous cyst adenoma, two of retention cyst associated with invasive ductal adenocarcinoma and one of solid cystic tumor., Results: In all cases MRCP correctly identified the main pancreatic duct (MPD) and showed the entire cystic tumor and the communication between the tumor and the MPD. On the other hand, the detection rate by ERCP of the cystic tumor and the communication between the cystic tumor and the MPD was only 60%. Although the detection rates by CT for the septum and solid components inside the cystic tumor were 100 and 90.0%, respectively, those of MRCP for each were 58.3 and 20.0%., Conclusion: MRCP is capable of providing diagnostic information superior to ERCP for the diagnosis of cystic tumor of the pancreas. Although MRCP may provide complementary information about the whole lesion of interest, the characteristic internal features of cystic tumor of the pancrease should be carefully diagnosed in combination with CT.

Background/aims: There are still many important but unclear points regarding the differential diagnosis and operative indications of cystic lesions of the pancreas with malignant potential. Studies of the clinicopathological and molecular biological characteristics of such diseases are necessary. In this paper, we discuss operative indications for this condition based on a review of the literature and our own experience., Methodology: Seven cases of serous cystadenoma and 9 cases of mucinous cystadenoma or cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas that were operated on or autopsied in our department from 1980 to 1996 were analyzed clinicopathologically. Small cystic lesions incidentally found in 300 autopsied cases were also studied. Finally, mucin-producing tumors described in several reports were reviewed, and the branch type of this tumor was especially investigated., Results: A marked disappearance of pancreatic acini in the upstream pancreas was found when serous cystadenoma became large. Papillary projection was histologically found in all of the cases. Tumorous invasion to the interstitium was suspected in tumors more than 5 cm in diameter, and malignancy was reported when tumors were larger than 6 cm. As for mucinous cystadenocarcinoma, the patients had a poor prognosis. In 2 of 42 cases with a pseudocyst, small duct cell carcinoma was incidentally found adjacent to the pseudocyst on the duodenal side. With regard to branch-type intraductal papillary neoplasm, 80% of the tumors larger than 4 cm were malignant. Most of the small cystic lesions found in elderly autopsy cases were accompanied by hyperplastic epithelia without evidence of malignancy., Conclusions: Based on our experience, an operation should be considered and resection is recommended under the following circumstances: 1) cystic lesions in the body and tail of the pancreas in middle-aged women; 2) typical serous cystadenoma larger than 4 cm; 3) mucinous cystadenoma of any size; 4) branch-type intraductal papillary neoplasm larger than about 3 cm; and, 5) pseudocysts of unknown cause. Small cystic lesions in elderly patients should not necessarily be operated on, but should be followed-up carefully.

Background: Cystic pancreatic tumours may be misdiagnosed as pseudocysts., Methods: From August 1990 to January 1998, 21 patients (16 women) with a median age of 60 years underwent operation for a cystic mass in the pancreas with histological confirmation of neoplasia (six serous cystadenoma (SCA), three mucinous cystic adenoma (MCA), ten mucinous cystadenocarcinoma (MCAC), one ductal adenocarcinoma with cystic degeneration, one cystic islet cell tumour)., Results: While the lesion had been labelled as a pseudocyst in eight patients, only one patient (MCA in the pancreatic head) had had acute pancreatitis previously. In seven patients the computed tomogram (CT) lacked suspicious neoplastic features, while endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, angiography and percutaneous cyst fluid analysis were unhelpful or misleading in 16 of 18 investigations with respect to differentiating tumour from pseudocyst. Attempted operation for cure was performed in 18 patients despite diagnostic delays of up to 6 years and initial treatment with cystenterostomy in two cases., Conclusion: Retrospective review revealed that all 21 cystic neoplasms could be diagnosed before operation by a history excluding previous pancreatitis (20 of 21 patients) or a CT suspicious for neoplasia (14 of 21). The diagnosis relies more on absence of previous pancreatitis and a suspicious clinician who errs on the side of resecting a pseudocyst rather than watching or draining a cystic neoplasm.

The role of receiver operating characteristic curves of transvaginal Doppler velocimetry in predicting malignancy was evaluated in 80 patients with benign and 40 patients with malignant adnexal tumors. The mean values of peak systolic velocity did not differ significantly. Malignant tumors had a significantly higher end diastolic velocity and mean flow velocity than benign tumors. Benign tumors had a significantly higher ratio of peak systolic to end diastolic velocity, pulsatility index, and resistive index than malignant tumors. The diagnostic accuracies in predicting malignancy were as follows: peak systolic velocity, 62%; end diastolic velocity, 79%; ratio of peak systolic to end diastolic velocity, 63%; mean flow velocity, 73%; pulsatility index, 91%; resistive index, RI 92%. Doppler velocimetry analysis allows us to predict the presence of malignancy with limited reliability.

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and intraductal ultrasound (IDUS) in the detection of small pancreatic tumors., Methods: EUS was performed in 166 patients with verified pancreatic disease. IDUS was performed in 46 patients. A microprobe was introduced into the main pancreatic duct through the papilla of Vater using the duodenoscope., Results: EUS was valuable in the detection of small pancreatic tumors. Ductal adenocarcinomas smaller than 1 cm were demonstrated as a hypoechoic mass with a central irregular hyperechoic area. EUS and IDUS were useful in the characterization of intraductal paillary tumors (ductectatic mucinous tumors). EUS demonstrated nodular excrescences, and IDUS depicted papillary proliferation of the duct epithelium, which are characteristic of carcinomas and adenomas but not of hyperplasia. Internal architecture of cystic neoplasms was clearly depicted by EUS, and differentiation of serous and mucinous tumors was readily achieved. A tumor as small as a 5-mm islet cell was demonstrated on EUS because islet cell tumors are very hypoechoic., Conclusion: EUS and IDUS are relatively noninvasive procedures and are useful in the detection of small tumors and differentiation of pancreatic diseases.

Background: The proper evaluation of patients with pancreatic cystic neoplasms remains controversial. Although computed tomography (CT) and sonography can differentiate the majority of these tumors, needle aspiration and biopsy can be helpful in selected patients. The purpose of this study was to (1) determine the sensitivity of needle aspiration and biopsy of cystic pancreatic neoplasms, (2) assess the complications after needle aspiration and biopsy, and (3) assess the indications for needle aspiration and biopsy by using the radiographic appearance as a guide., Methods: The histories, imaging studies, and pathologic specimens of 18 patients with serous cystadenoma (10 patients) or mucinous cystic tumor (eight patients) of the pancreas who also underwent CT-guided (n = 16), sonographically guided (n = 3), or intraoperative (n = 4) needle biopsy (n = 23 total biopsies) between 1976 and 1996 were retrospectively reviewed., Results: The histologic diagnosis of the serous subtype was made with needle aspiration and biopsy in five of 10 patients with serous cystadenoma. The histologic diagnosis of the mucinous subtype was made with needle aspiration and biopsy in six of eight patients with mucinous cystic neoplasms. Of the 23 biopsies performed, one patient experienced significant intraperitoneal hemorrhage. Indications for needle biopsy include an atypical cystic mass on diagnostic imaging studies, confirmation of a serous cystadenoma before observation, and confirmation of mucinous cystadenocarcinoma in patients with nonresectable disease., Conclusion: Needle biopsy and aspiration is a helpful and safe procedure to aid in the diagnosis of cystic pancreatic neoplasms before surgery.

The aims of our study were to determine the prevalence of simple ovarian cysts in asymptomatic postmenopausal patients and to investigate the natural history of these cysts by ultrasonographic follow-up examinations. Three thousand five hundred and eighty-five women participated in the volunteer pelvic cancer screening program. Entry criteria were as follows: postmenopausal, no clinical symptoms, and no previous gynecologic pathology. An anechoic, small cyst less than 5 cm in greatest diameter was classified as a simple ovarian cyst. A scoring system to determine malignant potential had been established previously. All simple cysts had a score of 2 or less and had a morphology typical of benign lesions. In the case of a positive finding, the patient would be seen at 3 to 6 month intervals. The decision for surgical intervention was made by a private gynecologist or patient or if an interval change was noted. One thousand seven hundred and sixty-nine postmenopausal women (49.34% of all patients from the screening program) participated in this study. One hundred and sixteen simple cysts were found, with a prevalence of 6.6% in our population. Among those patients, 27 (23.28%) simple cysts resolved spontaneously, 69 (59.48%) have persisted, and 20 (17.24%) have been lost to follow-up study. Eighteen women (26.09%) with persistent simple ovarian cyst underwent surgery. No malignant ovarian conditions were identified. In conclusion, simple ovarian cysts are more common in postmenopausal women than previously was thought. This condition is very unlikely to be malignant and can be followed conservatively.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to clarify the usefulness of contrast-enhanced endoscopic ultrasonography in pancreatic diseases., Methods: The subjects comprised 37 patients with pancreatic diseases: 11 with ductal cell carcinoma, 10 with mucin-producing tumor, five with pseudo-cyst, four with islet cell tumor, four with chronic pancreatitis, and three with serous cystadenoma. After endoscopic ultrasonography, Albunex (0.22 ml/kg) was injected intravenously at a rate of 1 ml/s into the right median vein, and observation was continued for 10 min. The presence or absence of enhancement of the lesion was determined in each disease. Because all the patients with ductal cell carcinoma, islet cell tumor, chronic pancreatitis, and serous cystadenoma, as well as five with mucin-producing tumor and three with pseudo-cyst, underwent angiography, vascularity was compared between angiographic images and those of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography., Results: Enhancement of the lesion was observed in all patients with islet cell tumor and serous cystadenoma, in eight with mucin-producing tumor, and in three with chronic pancreatitis. However, no enhancement effect was observed in the patients with ductal cell carcinoma and those with pseudo-cyst. Comparison between the images of contrast-enhanced endoscopic ultrasonography and angiographic images showed three patients in whom angiograms were hypovascular, but enhancement effect was observed on ultrasonographic images., Conclusion: The combined evaluation of plain and enhanced images of endoscopic ultrasonography may be useful for the diagnosis of pancreatic diseases.