Pancreatic MCN cyst - head of pancreas

I had history of unexplained Acute bouts of Pancreatitis. Last year (2024) I had a CT scan due to abdominal pain from Diverticulitis. What also showed up in the CT scan, was the presence of a cyst on the head of my pancreas. Shortly thereafter, I had an MRI with contrast which showed a dilated duct and septations in the cyst and what appeared a very small growth inside the cyst. These are considered worrisome features. Shortly after my MRI, I had a EUS which was not conclusive. Note that the biopsy is one point in the cyst. The MRI report stated to have a consultation with a surgical oncologist. I met with two surgical oncologist. One at Mayo in Rochester and one at Froedtert Hospital & MCW. Both agreed that a Whipple was needed. The probability of the cyst containing Adenocarcinoma type cells based on the worrisome findings was 50/50. Had the Whipple in June 2024 at Froedtert in Milwaukee. I can say that the surgery saved my life as my cyst did in fact have cells of the Adenocarcinoma type. Please do not wait, a year can make the difference between life and death as pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and difficult to treat. Get a second opinion at a specialized high volume health center such as Mayo. Whishing you peace and health!

Thank you! I am glad you are doing well. I am scheduled to go to Mayo Jacksonville soon.

I had history of unexplained Acute bouts of Pancreatitis. Last year (2024) I had a CT scan due to abdominal pain from Diverticulitis. What also showed up in the CT scan, was the presence of a cyst on the head of my pancreas. Shortly thereafter, I had an MRI with contrast which showed a dilated duct and septations in the cyst and what appeared a very small growth inside the cyst. These are considered worrisome features. Shortly after my MRI, I had a EUS which was not conclusive. Note that the biopsy is one point in the cyst. The MRI report stated to have a consultation with a surgical oncologist. I met with two surgical oncologist. One at Mayo in Rochester and one at Froedtert Hospital & MCW. Both agreed that a Whipple was needed. The probability of the cyst containing Adenocarcinoma type cells based on the worrisome findings was 50/50. Had the Whipple in June 2024 at Froedtert in Milwaukee. I can say that the surgery saved my life as my cyst did in fact have cells of the Adenocarcinoma type. Please do not wait, a year can make the difference between life and death as pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive and difficult to treat. Get a second opinion at a specialized high volume health center such as Mayo. Whishing you peace and health!

Thank you! I am glad you are doing well. I am scheduled to go to Mayo Jacksonville soon.

Were you able to have your appointment with Mayo Jacksonville? If so, how did it go?

Yes! I am going back next week for another biopsy and they are going to send it for genetic testing which is something they did not do here locally. Fingers crossed!

Good for you. Seems like things are progressing. It is pretty cool to be able to genetically test the biopsied cells. Do have any idea how long it takes? I have not had that done, so I am just curious. Thanks.