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Biliary sludge and acute pancreatitis during pregnancy
1Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA. cwko@u.washington.edu
Nature Clinical Practice. Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|January 7, 2006
Summary
A pregnant woman with biliary sludge experienced acute pancreatitis. She received conservative management and delivered via C-section, followed by gallbladder removal postpartum.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- A 34-year-old woman at 34 weeks gestation presented with symptoms suggestive of acute pancreatitis.
- She had a history of two prior Cesarean sections and no other significant medical history.
Observation:
- Elevated serum amylase and lipase levels were noted.
- Abdominal ultrasonography revealed gallbladder sludge but no gallstones, thickened gallbladder wall, or bile duct dilation.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with biliary sludge and acute pancreatitis.
- Conservative management including pain control, hydration, and nutritional support was initiated.
Implications:
- The patient underwent an uncomplicated Cesarean section.
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was safely performed 8 weeks postpartum, resolving the pancreatitis.
- This case highlights the successful management of acute pancreatitis secondary to biliary sludge in late gestation.
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