Very high CEA level in a large pancreatic cyst: is it a surgical indication by itself?
Is it possible that the mucinous epithelium of panIN was responsible for the unexpectedly high CEA value? Clinicians should be aware of the usefulness of the CEA level in cystic fluid but even a very high CEA value should not be considered by itself to be evidence of a mucinous lesion.
Our study suggests that patients with OPTX can be managed conservatively with close monitoring, but only in areas with ready access to emergency facilities should any adverse events occur.