Published online Jul 27, 2026. doi: 10.4240/wjgs.v18.i7.119186
Revised: February 17, 2026
Accepted: April 13, 2026
Published online: July 27, 2026
Processing time: 187 Days and 22.7 Hours
Lymphoepithelial cysts (LECs) of the pancreas are rare, benign cystic lesions with unclear pathogenesis, and their diagnostic workup is often challenging. LECs with sebaceous differentiation are even more uncommon. They are typically solitary and asymptomatic, found in men and diagnosed incidentally. While imaging modalities and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) may help identify cystic lesions of the pancreas, LECs can resemble other entities, making accurate pre
A 74-year-old male was incidentally diagnosed with an asymptomatic cystic lesion of the pancreas tail. While there were no deviations in laboratory workup or clinical examination, magnetic resonance imaging and EUS identified a cystic lesion 37 mm in diameter and filled with concentric nodules within fluid. Mucin was found within the cyst at biopsy, and mucinous cystic neoplasm was sus
This article emphasizes the importance of recognizing the distinct characteristics of pancreatic LECs to help clinicians make more informed decisions and avoid unnecessary interventions. Continued reporting of similar cases is vital to improve our understanding and refine diagnostic strategies for these rare pancreatic lesions.
Core Tip: This article provides a review of the available literature on extremely rare lymphoepithelial cysts (LECs) of the pancreas, accompanied by reporting management of a patient with such a lesion with sebaceous glands. Pancreatic LECs with sebaceous differentiation are benign and lack malignant potential, but they mimic mucinous cystic lesions radiologically and cytologically, often leading to unnecessary surgery. Thorough pathological examination of the resected specimen is important, as the mechanism of pancreatic LECs in not fully understood. Thus, every reported case may contribute to a better understanding of this rare disease.