The Use of Biomarkers in the Risk Stratification of Cystic Neoplasms

Abstract

Cyst fluid biomarkers may be used to identify pancreatic cyst subtypes. Biomarkers are selected based on their ability to accurately distinguish mucinous from nonmucinous cysts and to risk stratify cysts based on malignant potential. Biomarkers of interest include but are not limited to amylase, oncogenes, DNA analysis, and epigenetic markers. The introduction of next-generation sequencing and molecular panels has aided in improved diagnostic accuracy and risk stratification. This review presents the diagnostic performance of currently available biomarkers and proposes an algorithm to incorporate their use in the diagnosis of pancreatic cysts.

Keywords: Biomarkers; Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN); Malignancy; Molecular diagnosis; Mucinous neoplasm; Pancreatic cysts.