~~Description:  This presentation will discuss the recent advances in the diagnosis of pancreatic masses and cysts using EUS-FNA. Next-generation needles and appropriate tissue triage and workup of aspirate material will be discussed as well as the multidisciplinary approach combining the findings of endoscopy, imaging studies, cytology and ancillary studies that are needed for accurate diagnosis.  Important differential diagnoses will be illustrated.  New data concerning diagnostic criteria and molecular testing for cystic lesions will be discussed and illustrated. 

~~Dr. Pitman is an internationally recognized expert in the field of cytopathology and fine needle aspiration cytopathology in general, and pancreaticobiliary cytopathology in particular. She is a Professor of Pathology at Harvard Medical School and the director of the cytopathology laboratory at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she obtained her residency and fellowship training. She is past president of the Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology and on the executive and foundation boards of the American Society of Cytopathology. She is also Associate Editor of Cancer Cytopathology. Her clinical research is devoted to the investigation of the early detection of pancreatic cancer, especially in association with mucinous pancreatic cysts.