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Heterotopic pancreas presenting as dysphagia
Marc Shalaby1, Michael L Kochman, Gary R Lichtenstein
1Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia 19104-4283, USA.
The American Journal of Gastroenterology
|May 11, 2002
Summary
Heterotopic pancreatic tissue, a rare congenital anomaly, can cause dysphagia. Endoscopic ultrasound aids in diagnosing this pancreatic rest, even when symptoms are unusual.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Congenital Anomalies
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Heterotopic pancreatic tissue (pancreatic rest) is an uncommon congenital anomaly.
- This extrapancreatic tissue lacks vascular or anatomical connection to the main pancreas.
- It most commonly affects the stomach and proximal small intestine.
Observation:
- Most patients with pancreatic heterotopia are asymptomatic.
- Symptomatic presentations vary widely.
- A rare case presented primarily with dysphagia for solid food.
Findings:
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) was instrumental in defining the pancreatic rest causing dysphagia.
- Literature review indicates only two previously reported cases of pancreatic rest causing dysphagia.
- EUS is a valuable tool for evaluating pancreatic rests.
Implications:
- Highlights a rare cause of dysphagia.
- Underscores the utility of endoscopic ultrasound in diagnosing uncommon gastrointestinal anomalies.
- Contributes to the limited literature on symptomatic pancreatic rests.