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The clinical evaluation of needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy in the assessment of pancreatic cystic lesion: A pilot study

Background/aim: Pancreatic cystic lesions are increasingly diagnosed from cross-sectional imaging done for other indications. The challenge lies in the ability to correctly identify the high-risk individuals for resection surgery, which carries high morbidity and mortality. Unfortunately, present diagnostic techniques are suboptimal. Needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE) has been designed to bridge this diagnostic gap. We aim to assess the feasibility and safety of nCLE in the assessment of pancreatic cystic lesions. Methods: We prospectively recruited patients referred for assessment of pancreatic cystic lesions from August 2014 until July 2015. All pancreatic cystic lesions were examined with nCLE miniprobe via endoscopic ultrasound followed by fine-needle aspiration. Information regarding the cysts (morphology, location, fluid analysis etc.) was documented. Adverse event was recorded. Results: Fourteen patients were recruited, six were male with a mean age of 66.5 (range 48–80) years. Only 12 completed nCLE examination of the pancreatic cystic lesions. nCLE imaging was successful in 83.3% (10/12). Average nCLE imaging duration was 5 min 18 s. There was one (10%) adverse event. nCLE impressions were correct in eight cases (five malignant and three benign) compared with final diagnosis. Three patients underwent surgery, histology showed ductal adenocarcinoma, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor and gastric-subtype of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm. The sensitivity and specificity of the nCLE impression when compared with final diagnosis were 83.3% and 75% respectively. The accuracy of nCLE was 80%. Conclusion: Our results have demonstrated that nCLE assessment of pancreatic cystic lesions is safe and feasible. It may complement the existing diagnostic modalities to improve diagnostic yield.