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Pancreatic cysts and pseudocysts

Also called: Pancreatic cyst, pancreatic pseudocyst, IPMN

Fluid sacs in or on the pancreas. Pseudocysts form after pancreatitis; other cysts are often found by chance. Most are harmless, but some types are watched because they can turn into cancer.

PseudocystAfter pancreatitis
Found by chanceCommon on scans after 60
Follow-upScans to watch for changes

Overview

Many pseudocysts go away on their own.

Mucinous cysts like IPMN have some cancer risk and are followed closely.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Pancreatic cyst found on a scan

Less common

  • Upper belly pain
  • Feeling full fast
  • Nausea

Look up a symptom: Bloating or gas · Stomach pain

When to get medical care

Call 911Severe belly pain with fever, vomiting, or fainting.
Get care todayYellow skin or eyes.
See a doctor soonA new cyst found.

Causes

Pancreatitis, or unknown.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Past pancreatitis
  • Older age

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Imaging shows the cyst.

Questions you may be asked

  • Past pancreatitis, alcohol use

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • CT or MRI:
  • Endoscopic ultrasound: Sometimes with a fluid sample.

Treatment

Follow the plan for your cyst type.

Self-care

  • Keep follow-up scans
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Report new pain, weight loss, or yellow skin

Large or symptomatic cysts may be drained or removed.

Prevention

To lower risk:

  • Avoid heavy alcohol

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most never cause problems.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • What type of cyst is it?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Pancreatic cysts and pseudocysts

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.