Cystadenoma

Cystadenoma is a benign epithelial tumor characterized by cystic spaces lined by glandular (epithelial) tissue. It can arise in various organs that contain glandular elements, most commonly the ovaries, pancreas, liver, and, less frequently, the kidneys or salivary glands. The cysts are typically filled with serous (clear) or mucinous (thick mucus) fluid and may be solitary or multilocular.

In the ovary, serous cystadenomas are among the most common benign ovarian neoplasms, often presenting as smooth-walled, bilateral cystic masses in women. Mucinous cystadenomas are usually unilateral, larger, and can be multilocular. In the pancreas, serous cystadenomas are generally benign and more common in middle‑aged women, whereas mucinous cystic neoplasms have a higher potential for malignant progression and are treated with greater caution. Biliary or hepatic cystadenomas are rare cystic tumors that may contain ovarian-type stroma and carry a risk of recurrence if not completely removed; some cases may harbor malignant change to cystadenocarcinoma.

Clinical presentation is variable and may include abdominal or pelvic pain, fullness, or an incidentally discovered mass. Diagnosis relies on imaging studies such as ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging, with histopathology after surgical excision providing definitive confirmation. Tumor markers may aid assessment in some contexts.

Treatment typically involves complete surgical excision. Management strategies are tailored to the organ involved and aim to remove the lesion while preserving function when possible. Prognosis after complete removal is generally excellent, though recurrence can occur if the lesion is not fully excised.