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Fungal pseudotumor masquerading as pancreatic cancer-a sequela of new technology?
D J Ludwig1, K Morimoto, L W Traverso
1Department of General Surgery, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA.
Abstract:
Fungal infection resulting in chronic pancreatitis is rare. We report a case of chronic pancreatitis due to fungal infection causing common bile duct obstruction and abdominal pain mimicking pancreatic cancer. Treatment included resection to cure the pain and rule out malignancy. Long-term effects of fungal infection may be seen more frequently as total parenteral nutrition, antibiotics, and foreign bodies (e.g., stents, drains, central venous catheters) are more often being used in the treatment of many diseases.
Insights
Chronic pancreatitis from fungal infection is rare but can mimic pancreatic cancer, causing bile duct obstruction and pain. Surgical resection may be necessary for diagnosis and symptom relief.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Chronic pancreatitis is typically associated with alcohol or autoimmune causes.
- Fungal infections leading to pancreatitis are exceptionally rare in clinical practice.
Observation:
- A case of chronic pancreatitis presented with common bile duct obstruction and abdominal pain.
- The patient's symptoms mimicked pancreatic cancer, necessitating investigation.
Findings:
- Fungal infection was identified as the cause of chronic pancreatitis and biliary obstruction.
- Surgical resection was performed to alleviate pain and exclude malignancy.
Implications:
- The increasing use of medical interventions like total parenteral nutrition and indwelling devices may lead to more frequent fungal infections causing pancreatitis.
- This case highlights the importance of considering fungal etiologies in complex pancreatitis cases, especially in immunocompromised or medically treated patients.
