"Pancreatic macrocysts are true cysts, lined by an epithelial layer. Defective transmembrane ion transport results in hyper-concentrated or inspissated pancreatic secretions. This increases intraluminal pressure in the pancreatic ducts, resulting in ductal ectasia and eventual formation of cysts of various sizes 4."
"well-defined homogenous lesions with thin, smooth walls"
"homogenous low signal intensity"
"homogenous high signal, similar to CSF"
"cysts are often more heterogenous and may have septations; cysts may have higher T1 signal due to presence of mucin"
Expected headings
"Signal characteristics"
"Many patients are asymptomatic, while cystosis can be described in patients with multiple gastrointestinal symptoms including abdominal discomfort, nausea, fullness and poor quality of life 3. Given the prevalence of these symptoms in patients with cystic fibrosis, the contribution of pancreatic cystosis to an individual patient’s symptoms can be difficult to ascertain."
"may be separated by hyperechoic pancreatic parenchyma; in some cases the parenchyma may be completely replaced by macrocysts 2"
"cysts are often more heterogenous and may have septations; cysts may have higher T1 signal due to presence of mucin"