Atlas of Pancreatic Cytopathology with Histopathologic Correlations

Clinical and radiologic examinations cannot reliably distinguish benign or inflammatory pancreatic disease from carcinoma. The increased use of pancreatic fine needle aspiration (FNA) along with advances in imaging techniques and the introduction of endoscopic ultrasound guidance have led to significantly better detection and recognition of pancreatic masses. Consequently, pancreatic cytopathology is integral to accurate pre-operative diagnosis yet it is a challenging diagnostic area with a variety of potential pitfalls and "look-alike" lesions. Skillful recognition and an awareness of the limitations of the procedure are essential in avoiding misdiagnosis of these dangerous lesions.