Pancreatic non-invasive mucinous cystadenocarcinoma

A non-invasive malignant cystic epithelial neoplasm arising from the exocrine pancreas. It occurs almost exclusively in women. Small tumors are usually found incidentally. Larger tumors usually produce symptoms related to compression of the adjacent structures. It is characterized by the presence of columnar, mucin-producing epithelial cells which often form papillary projections with irregular branching and budding. There is cellular stratification, severe dysplasia, and high mitotic activity present. Complete surgical removal is usually associated with an excellent prognosis.