Solid and cystic tumor of the pancreas in an adult male.

A solid and cystic tumor (SCT) was located at the head of the pancreas in a 43-year-old Japanese male, and pancreatoduodenectomy was performed on the suspicion of papillary carcinoma or cystadenocarcinoma of the pancreas. The lesion, which measured 4.5 x 4.5 x 4.0 cm, was clearly demarcated by connective tissue. The cut surface showed solid grayish-white areas with central cystic degenerative changes. The solid areas consisted of small round cells proliferating in a small solid or a pseudopapillary pattern. The tumor cells partially invaded the surrounding normal pancreatic parenchyma. Immunohistochemical studies revealed positive staining for alpha-1-antitrypsin and neuron-specific enolase, but no staining for known pancreatic hormones. Moreover, ultrastructural studies showed the absence of zymogen granules and the presence of anullate lamellae and neurosecretory granules. On the basis of these findings, a diagnosis of SCT of the pancreas was established. In order to clarify the histogenesis and biological behavior of the tumor, it is necessary to accumulate and analyze similar cases, an endeavor which in turn will contribute to the successful management of this disease.