Precursors of Pancreatic cancer: Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PanIN) and Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms (IPMN)]

Pancreatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PanIN1-3) and Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms (IPMN) putative precursors of and associated to pancreatic cancer represent a distinct, however pathologically heterogenous entity. Recently a new classification and nomenclature was established. We review the clinicopathologic and cytogenetic characteristics of PanIN and IPMN highlighting the nonaggressive biological behavior of intraepithelial and intraductal neoplasms which, in part explain their favorable prognosis.