Clinicopathological characteristics and survival outcomes of pancreatic cystic neoplasms: Fifteen-year experience in a cancer center in Mexico

Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms have an increased detection in recent years, mainly as incidental findings in imaging studies. Since some types are benign while others have malignant potential, early detection may determine survival outcomes, especially if it is associated with invasive carcinoma. We aim to report clinical and surgical characteristics, and survival outcomes in a cancer center in Mexico. A retrospective analysis at Mexico's National Cancer Institute between 2010 and 2024 was conducted. Three groups were created to evaluate differences: low-grade malignancy (group 1: Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasm), malignant potential (group 2: Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm and Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm), and benign or low malignant potential lesions (group 3: Serous Cystic Neoplasm and Pancreatic Lymphangioma). A final cohort of 123 patients were analyzed, with 40 (32.5%), 51 (41.5%) and 32 (26.0%) cases in group 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Clinicopathological differences were noted in jaundice, palpable mass, weight loss, biliary obstruction, size >3 cm, main pancreatic duct dilatation, enlarged lymph nodes and elevated serum CA 19-9. The 1- and 3-year disease-specific survival rates were 87.2% [95% CI: 80.7–93.7] and 80.8% [95% CI: 72.8–88.8], and a better prognosis in Serous Cystic Neoplasms. Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms have a favorable prognosis after resection in highly selected patients treated at specialized centers.