Which type of pancreatic cystic neoplasm carries the highest risk of malignant transformation and is characterized by mucinous epithelium with ovarian-type stroma in a predominantly female patient?
- A Mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN) ✓
- B Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN)
- C Serous cystadenoma
- D Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm
Explanation
Mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN) of the pancreas is defined by the combination of mucinous epithelial lining and distinctive ovarian-type stroma (which stains for progesterone receptors) in the cyst wall. It occurs almost exclusively in women (>95%), typically in the body or tail. MCN has significant malignant potential (approximately 10-15% invasive carcinoma at resection), higher than serous cystadenoma (benign), and most MCNs are resected. IPMN communicates with the pancreatic duct; serous cystadenomas are benign honeycomb-like cysts; solid pseudopapillary neoplasm occurs in young women but has different histology.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.