GuidelineIAP / ACRCT / MRIPancreas Algorithm

Pancreatic Cysts (Fukuoka / ACR)

IAP / ACR · Fukuoka 2017 · Updated Fukuoka 2017 (Kyoto 2024 in adoption)

IPMN and MCN surveillance. Worrisome features and high-risk stigmata drive endoscopic ultrasound vs surgical resection.

Bottom line

Enhancing mural nodule ≥5 mm, MPD ≥10 mm, or obstructive jaundice → surgical consultation.

Applies to

Incidentally detected pancreatic cystic lesions · Suspected IPMN or MCN on CT / MRI / MRCP

Does NOT apply to

Pseudocysts (post-pancreatitis) — clinical management · Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms and cystic neuroendocrine tumors

Modality

CT / MRI

Evidence

International consensus — expert panel

30-second summary

Stratify by worrisome features (WF) and high-risk stigmata (HRS). HRS → surgical consultation. WF → EUS ± FNA. Neither → size-based surveillance.

Overview

IPMN and MCN surveillance. Worrisome features and high-risk stigmata drive endoscopic ultrasound vs surgical resection.

Quick reference

High-risk stigmata (any → surgical consult)
FeatureThreshold
Enhancing mural nodule≥ 5 mm
Main pancreatic duct≥ 10 mm
Obstructive jaundiceIn a patient with a cystic lesion of the head
Worrisome features (any → EUS)
FeatureThreshold
Cyst size≥ 3 cm
Enhancing mural nodule< 5 mm
Thickened / enhancing walls
Main duct5–9 mm
Abrupt change in caliber with distal atrophy
Lymphadenopathy · elevated CA 19-9 · growth ≥ 5 mm/2 y

Decision algorithm

Interactive
Pancreatic Cyst Algorithm

Surveillance vs surgery for the incidental pancreatic cyst.

Walk through algorithm

References

  • Tanaka M et al. Pancreatology 2017 (Fukuoka)

    Tanaka M, Fernández-del Castillo C, Kamisawa T, et al. Revisions of international consensus Fukuoka guidelines for the management of IPMN of the pancreas. Pancreatology 2017;17(5):738-753.