Portuguese Pancreatic Club perspective on epidemiology, classification and natural history of pancreatic intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are the most common cystic tumors of the pancreas. They are usually incidental findings in asymptomatic individuals and have an uncertain natural history. In most cases, the diagnosis relies on imaging and may be supported by endoscopic ultrasound-guided cystic fluid sampling (and eventually other advanced EUS-based techniques). Determining which IPMNs require further investigation and follow-up involves identifying features associated with a higher risk of high-grade dysplasia or invasive cancer, which may ultimately require surgery. The clinical management of IPMNs remains challenging, placing an increasing burden on healthcare systems. A thorough understanding of this condition is essential to guide clinical decisions, optimize resource allocation and improve patient care. In this review, the Portuguese Pancreatic Club summarizes the most recent literature regarding epidemiology, classification and natural history of IPMNs.