ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the CT imaging features of solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas (SPTP) and to improve the preoperative diagnostic accuracy. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on the CT manifestations of 21 cases of SPTP confirmed by pathology and surgery. Results In the 21 cases of SPTP, 19 were young and middle-aged female (range: 9～29 years old). The lesions were located in the pancreatic head and neck in 13 cases, and in the pancreatic body and tail in 4 cases each. The maximum diameter of tumor was 3 ～ 15 cm (mean 7.5cm). CT showed a single, round-like, cystic and solid mass in the pancreas. Eighteen cases had a complete capsule, and 3 cases had poorly defined margin with surrounding tissue. 5 cases of tumor were encapsulated or appeared scattered calcification in the center, only 1 case had pancreatic duct dilation (about 5mm in diameter), and no patient had bile duct changes. After enhanced scanning, the tumor capsule and the solid part were mildly to moderately enhanced during arterial phase, and they were significantly enhanced during portal venous phase and equilibrium phase. The cystic part was not enhanced, but the capsule was significantly enhanced. Conclusions CT manifestations of solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas have certain characteristics, and when combined with clinical and imaging manifestations, accurate diagnosis generally can be made.