Plain-English translation of NCT03855800 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
Pancreatic cysts are fluid-filled pouches in the pancreas that are often found by accident during imaging scans. Some of these cysts can develop into cancer, but doctors don't always know which ones are dangerous. This study is collecting blood, stool, and pancreatic fluid samples from people with worrisome or high-risk cysts to develop new tests that can better identify which cysts need treatment and which ones can be safely watched over time.
Right now, doctors struggle to tell the difference between pancreatic cysts that are harmless and ones that could turn into cancer. This means some people have unnecessary surgery, while others might not get treated soon enough. This research aims to find molecular clues in blood and other samples that could help doctors make smarter decisions about who needs surgery and who can be monitored safely.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
Depending on your doctor's recommendation, you'll either be followed with regular imaging and phone check-ins (Clinical Follow-up group) or scheduled for surgery (Immediate Surgery group). Either way, you'll provide samples of blood, stool, pancreatic juice, and fluid from your cyst. If you're in the follow-up group, researchers will contact you yearly for telephone interviews and review your medical records for up to 5 years or until you have surgery.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 4, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States
Sponsor
Mayo Clinic
Collaborators
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Enrollment target
~800 participants
Started
May 2018
Primary completion
December 2030
Age range
18 Years – 120 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in June 2026.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
IN-CYST Team
Mayo Clinic
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.