FAQ
What is a pancreas?
The pancreas is a small, elongated gland, located behind the stomach. It produces digestive enzymes and hormones. It’s most important hormone is Insulin, which controls blood sugar levels.
What is a pancreatic cyst?
A pancreatic cyst is a sac-like fluid pocket, on or within the pancreas. They may be present at birth or develop in the course of life, for example after a trauma or inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). 2.4% of the healthy population has a pancreatic cyst, the prevalence increases with age. Only a small number of these cysts have the potential to progress to pancreatic cancer.
What symptoms does a pancreatic cyst cause?
Small cysts rarely cause any symptoms and are usually detected by coincidence. Large cysts may exert pressure on surrounding organs. In that case, abdominal pain is the most common symptom. Some patients present with jaundice (yellow-colored skin and eyes). Also, the pancreas may start to malfunction, leading to diabetes and/or steatorrhoea (fatty stool). Weight loss can also occur.
How is a pancreatic cyst diagnosed?
Most pancreatic cysts are detected by coincidence, when an imaging study is performed for another reason. To further investigate a cyst, detailed imaging is necessary (either by MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or CT (Computed Tomography) scan. In addition, an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) may be performed. This investigation may include tissue (biopsy) or cyst (fluid) sampling. Also, determination of certain blood markers may help obtain a definite diagnosis.
What will be investigated in the PACYFIC study?
The answer to this question can be found: here.
How is participation different from regular cyst surveillance?
The answer to this question can be found: here.
What is expected of patients in the PACYFIC study?
The answer to this question can be found: here.
What are the other available surveillance options?
The answer to this question can be found: here.
What are the risks and benefits of participating?
The answer to this question can be found: here.
Am I insured if I participate?
The answer to this question van be found: here.
How can I participate?
Please ask your treating physician if your hospital participates in the PACYFIC study.
Where can I find study documents (patient information folder/ patient questionnaire)?
The answer to this question can be found: here.
How can I contact the study team?
The answer can be found: here
How can I participate?
Please ask your treating physician if your hospital participates in the PACYFIC study.