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[A case of psuedocyst of the pancreas suspected to lung abscess]

Koitsu Sasaki1, Chimori Konaka

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Chemotherapy Research Institute, Kaken Hospital.

Nihon Kokyuki Gakkai Zasshi = the Journal of the Japanese Respiratory Society
|March 14, 2007
PubMed

Insights

A rare case of pancreatic pseudocyst presented as a lung cavity. This condition, typically affecting the pancreas, mimicked pulmonary disease on chest X-ray, highlighting its importance in differential diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Pulmonology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Pancreatic pseudocysts are collections of fluid rich in pancreatic enzymes, usually developing after pancreatitis.
  • Pulmonary manifestations of extrapulmonary diseases are uncommon but can present diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

  • An 83-year-old male presented with appetite loss and a left lower lung cavity with an air-fluid level on chest X-ray.
  • Initial suspicion focused on pulmonary abscess or tuberculosis due to the radiographic findings.

Findings:

  • Aspiration of the lung cavity revealed significantly elevated amylase levels (17930 IU/l).
  • This finding led to the diagnosis of a pancreatic pseudocyst.

Implications:

  • Pancreatic pseudocysts should be considered in the differential diagnosis of lung cavities, especially when accompanied by elevated amylase.
  • This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach for unusual presentations of common diseases.

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