Introduction:
With the increasing use of high-performance imaging techniques, cystic changes in the pancreas are being discovered more frequently. In most cases, cystic lesions of the pancreas exhibit poorly defined biological behavior. Therefore, regular monitoring is required for newly diagnosed cystic neoplasms, often necessitating lifelong surveillance. Continuous documentation of test results and their comparability poses a challenge in clinical practice. To address these issues, we have developed a Pancreatic Cyst Passport (PZP) which is considered a patient-based documentation and an associated registry at the University Hospital of Magdeburg (Germany).
Methods:
The PZP is a medical document that records personal information, relevant cyst characteristics, test results, and specific laboratory values such as tumor markers. The PZP is available in both paper and digital formats, making it instantly accessible on mobile devices, tablets, and PCs during medical examinations. Additionally, a secure QR code option is available, enabling direct access to the PZP website by scanning a QR code. After the patient agrees to the data protection declaration, they receive an email with a personalized link to their own PZP, which is accessible at all times. This form can be filled out both at the initial cyst diagnosis and during any subsequent follow-up assessments. The patient has the option to edit the documents / passport independently or seek assistance from their treating physician. The data collected is automatically stored in our Magdeburg Registry for Pancreatic Cysts (MRPZ) – which is a protected database.
Results (corner points):
- The collected data is stored in the MRPZ, which is the first nationwide patient-based database for pancreatic cysts in Germany.
- Data collection began in October 2023. This will provide a realistic overview of the epidemiology of pancreatic cysts and enhance understanding of such findings.
- Another primary goal of this project is to promote clarity and transparency in the doctor-patient relationship.
- Simultaneously, it aims to minimize information loss, facilitating collaboration among various specialists to ensure the best possible treatment for patients and avoid unnecessary, frequent follow-up examinations.
Conclusion:
In the era of medical digitalization, we present an innovative digital tool for patients with cystic lesions of the pancreas. This tool stores all relevant medical information and allows for instant access. This not only enhances patient education but also optimizes communication among all medical disciplines, making the treatment of such findings more efficient and cost-effective.
