Understanding pancreatic cysts and their risks

Diagnostic Strategies, Risk Assessment and Progression of Pancreatic Cysts

Johns Hopkins University · NCT04473794

This study is trying to understand pancreatic cysts better to help doctors tell which ones are harmless and which ones might be dangerous, so patients can avoid unnecessary tests and surgeries.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment5000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorJohns Hopkins University (other)
Locations1 site (Baltimore, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT04473794 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to determine the natural history of pancreatic cysts and develop a diagnostic model to differentiate between mucinous and non-mucinous, as well as malignant and non-malignant cysts. By combining clinical, radiologic, and biomarker characteristics, the study seeks to improve the accuracy of current diagnostic tests, which often fail to reliably distinguish between benign and malignant cysts. This could help reduce unnecessary surveillance and surgical procedures for patients with benign cysts. The study will involve adult patients referred for assessment of pancreatic cysts.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adult patients aged 18 years and older who are referred for assessment of a pancreatic cyst.

Not a fit: Patients who are medically ill with an American Society of Anesthesiologists class of 4 or greater, or those unable to provide informed consent, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better management of pancreatic cysts, reducing unnecessary procedures and improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in using similar diagnostic approaches for pancreatic cysts, but this specific model is novel and aims to validate existing guidelines.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patients age 18 years and older
* Referred for assessment of a pancreatic cyst.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Medically ill patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists class 4 or greater.
* Inability to provide informed consent.
* Pregnancy or lactation.

Where this trial is running

Baltimore, Maryland

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Pancreatic Neoplasms, Pancreas Cancer

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.