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Pancreatic ascites in the first year of life

F F Rubaltelli, A Barbato, M Guglielmi

    Helvetica Paediatrica Acta
    |April 1, 1976
    PubMed

    Insights

    Pancreatic ascites is rare in infants. This case highlights the importance of checking amylase levels in unexplained infant ascites and managing pseudocysts via drainage.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Gastroenterology
    • Pancreatology
    • Neonatal Medicine

    Background:

    • Pancreatic ascites is a rare condition characterized by the accumulation of pancreatic fluid in the peritoneal cavity.
    • Cases in the first year of life are exceptionally uncommon, with limited pediatric literature available.
    • Unexplained ascites in infants warrants a thorough diagnostic workup to identify underlying causes.

    Observation:

    • A 4-month-old female infant presented with unexplained ascites.
    • Diagnostic evaluation revealed pancreatic ascites, likely secondary to a pancreatic fistula.
    • A pseudocyst formed along the fistula, contributing to the ascites.

    Findings:

    • The case represents one of the few reported instances of pancreatic ascites in an infant under one year of age.
    • Amylase determination in both ascitic fluid and serum is crucial for diagnosing pancreatic ascites.
    • Successful management involved initial external drainage followed by internal drainage of the pseudocyst.

    Implications:

    • This case underscores the need for considering pancreatic etiologies in pediatric ascites, even in neonates.
    • Early diagnosis through amylase testing can guide appropriate therapeutic interventions.
    • Surgical or interventional drainage techniques are effective in managing pancreatic pseudocysts causing ascites in infants.

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