Serous cystadenomas are a type of cystic neoplasm of the pancreas. These lesions are more frequent in those greater than age 70 and are more common in women. They are commonly quite large at the time of diagnosis measuring on average 5-8cm. Even though they are large they almost never cause jaundice and uncommonly will block the pancreatic duct. Thus, they are usually asymptomatic and are most usually found on diagnostic imaging performed for other reasons.

When they do cause symptoms it is usually due to compression of surrounding organs such as the stomach which may cause partial obstruction of the intestines. These lesions are benign and can usually be differentiated from other more serious cystic neoplasms by modern diagnostic techniques. In the absence of symptoms, they may be safely observed without surgery.