IPMN : Introduction
Image Description
Introduction: Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of pancreas is a grossly evident cystic neoplasm that arises within the main pancreatic duct and/or its branches. It has papillary architecture and is composed of mucin-producing cells.
IPMN is the most common cystic tumor of the pancreas and is a known precursor for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The incidence of IPMNs is increasing as a result of increased use of cross-sectional imaging. IPMNs are treated via surgical resection (pancreatoduodenectomy) and have a good prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of at least 85%, if invasive adenocarcinoma is not present.
About this image: Whipple resection specimen showing IPMN arising in the main pancreatic duct (seen along the lower edge of the specimen). Normal pancreas and duodenal mucosa can be seen on the left. A portion of the resected gastric mucosa is present at the top of the image. The tumor had developed a fistulous connection to the stomach. Image copyright: pathorama.ch
IPMN is the most common cystic tumor of the pancreas and is a known precursor for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The incidence of IPMNs is increasing as a result of increased use of cross-sectional imaging. IPMNs are treated via surgical resection (pancreatoduodenectomy) and have a good prognosis with a 5-year survival rate of at least 85%, if invasive adenocarcinoma is not present.
About this image: Whipple resection specimen showing IPMN arising in the main pancreatic duct (seen along the lower edge of the specimen). Normal pancreas and duodenal mucosa can be seen on the left. A portion of the resected gastric mucosa is present at the top of the image. The tumor had developed a fistulous connection to the stomach. Image copyright: pathorama.ch