Pancreatic Cytology: Pattern Recognition and Case-Based Approach

This lecture offers the following credit types: CME, P.A.C.E.®, Florida
 

Cytology is commonly used as the diagnostic material for pancreatic neoplasms and cysts. In this lecture, cytomorphologic patterns will guide case-based learning through the most common pancreatic diagnoses. We will discuss how to make the most out of small cytologic samples with the addition of molecular and biochemical testing. This will be a good review of basic concepts in pancreatic cytology, making it appropriate for general pathologists and cytologists alike.

Originally published on February 4, 2026

Lecture Presenter

Valarie McMurtry, MD, PhD

Valarie McMurtry, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor (Clinical)
Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah
Medical Director, Molecular Oncology
ARUP Laboratories

Dr. Valarie McMurtry is a medical director of molecular oncology at ARUP Laboratories, and an assistant professor (clinical) at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah. She received her medical and doctorate degrees from Louisiana State University, Health Science Center. Dr. McMurtry completed her residency in anatomic and clinical pathology and fellowships in cytology and molecular genetics pathology at the University of Utah School of Medicine. She is board certified in anatomic and clinical pathology by the American Board of Pathology. Her research interests include solid tumor molecular genetics.

Objectives

After this presentation, participants will be able to:

  • Recognize distinctive cytomorphologic patterns and the differential diagnosis
  • Review criteria for diagnosis of adenocarcinoma in the pancreas
  • Describe the utility of ancillary testing in solid and cystic pancreatic lesions
  • Identify the role of rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) in pancreatic lesions

Sponsored by:

University of Utah School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, and ARUP Laboratories