Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm: Overview of management.

BACKGROUND

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas is increasingly being diagnosed incidentally on imaging. It has malignant potential, making it vital to establish the correct diagnosis, assess its malignant risk and follow a management strategy to prevent development of invasive carcinoma of the pancreas.

OBJECTIVE

This review focuses on the epidemiology, natural history, risk factors, diagnosis and management of IPMN of the pancreas, and will provide practical points for general practitioners.

DISCUSSION: IPMN of the pancreas can transform into invasive pancreatic carcinoma at a low rate of approximately 2%/year. Upon diagnosis of IPMN, it is risk stratified based on the presence of worrisome or high-risk stigmata, which guides further management. Management needs to be individualised based on IPMN and patient factors due to limitations with the current diagnostic tools.