Molecular biomarkers have the potential to improve the diagnostic work-up of pancreatic cystic lesions

Pancreatic cysts are increasingly diagnosed due to the widespread use of cross-sectional imaging, and some of these lesions harbor malignant potential. Mucinous cystic neoplasms and intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms are the major premalignant cystic neoplasms of the pancreas. A variety of diagnostic tools are used to predict the malignant potential of these cysts, but specificity and sensitivity are limited. Thus, many patients undergo unnecessary operations for benign cysts. Balancing the risks of watchful waiting with those of operative management is key in managing these lesions. During the last decade, genetic changes of pancreatic cysts have been examined extensively to estimate their malignant potential. In this review, we provide an overview of the latest molecular and genetic aspects of pancreatic cysts and how they may contribute to the differential diagnosis in patients with pancreatic cystic neoplasms.