These are abnormal collections of fluid, tissue and blood in the pancreas that can become painful. They are not cancerous. They usually develop shortly after a severe bout of pancreatitis.

Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment


Symptoms
Symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Poor appetite

• Weight loss

• Diarrhea

• Fever

Diagnosing pseudocysts of the pancreas
We will ask about your medical history and whether you have had gallstones. You may have the following tests:

• Blood and urine tests

• X-rays of your abdomen and chest

• Ultrasound exam of the pancreas and gallbladder

• CT scan of the pancreas

• ERCP using both x-rays and a flexible, lighted tube called an endoscope to see inside the pancreas, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts. A sample of tissue may be removed for tests.  You will receive light sedation for this test.

Treating pseudocysts of the pancreas
We usually watch for changes in size of the pseudocyst. It may become necessary to surgically drain the pseudocysts if there is  risk of complication. Left untreated, they may cause pain or lead to infection.