Anyone had reccurring dysplasia in pancreas after cyst removal?
Has anyone found information on having pancreatic dysplasia/cancer after Whipple?
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Has anyone found information on having pancreatic dysplasia/cancer after Whipple?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Pancreatic Cancer Support Group.
Do you mean atrophy of the pancreas post-Whipple?
Atrophy of the is often a noted on radiological imaging post Whipple of the remnant organ. The pancreatic parenchyma (thickness, length and volume) occurs after pancreaticoduodenectomy and it has been noted in studies of no significant differences between patients with or without post operative pancreatic fistula
I had my Whipple procedure in 2012 and it is noted on my imaging. In twelve years, there has been no change in blood glucose regulation and my pancreas still produces some enzyme levels. There are pathological conditions that can cause atrophy such as infiltration of fatty tissue and classified as non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). That is usually not a result because of the surgery. I don’t experience any symptoms from atrophy that was first observed after my Whipple procedure.
No not atrophy but dysplasia which is the beginning of cells changing and becoming cancer.
Since only part of my pancreas was removed, what are the chances of getting another pancreatic cyst developing and having dysplasia/cancer cell?
@weezi, am I understanding that you had Whipple surgery to remove a pancreatic cyst that was non-concerous? Now, monitoring has shown the presence of cells of an abnormal type within the pancreas, which may signify a stage preceding the development of cancer. Do I have that right?
Partly.
I had a Whipple for pancreatic cyst that proved to be mild dysplasia.
My question is am I now prone to develop more cysts on the pancreas and should I be monitored with CT/MRI in the future.
After years of being sick and repeatedly telling doctors something was wrong, I finally found a pancreatic surgeon who is also the chief of staff. He listened to me and performed a Whipple procedure in February 2023 to remove IPMN cysts in the head of my pancreas, including the largest, which measured 1.2 cm. During the surgery, he discovered PanIN-3, a precancerous lesion classified as high-grade dysplasia that can lead to invasive cancer. He also identified chronic pancreatitis (long-term inflammation) and changes in the pancreatic ducts, including areas of advanced PanIN-3.
The surgery went well, and lymph nodes were removed. My surgeon told me, “Praise God we got it out,” emphasizing that it would have turned into cancer if left untreated. However, IPMN cysts remain in the neck, body, and tail of my pancreas, with the largest measuring 2 cm, along with chronic pancreatitis.
Since the surgery, my healthcare team has been closely monitoring my pancreas with regular CT scans. I have another scan scheduled next week and am praying for the best.
Thank you for the hug joiedevivre.
I am glad @weezi this was helpful and PRAY, that you have a successful outcome!!
Thank you lkat01 for the hug:)