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Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Sodium Taurocholate Induced Severe Acute Pancreatitis in C57BL/6 Mice
Published on: June 28, 2021
[Carcinoma and acute pancreatitis--case reports]
Jadwiga Snarska1, Zbigniew Puchalski, Sławomir Dariusz Szajda
1Akademia Medyczna w Białymstoku, I Klinika Chirurgii Ogólnej i Endokrynologicznej. s1n2a3@poczta.onet.pl
Severe acute pancreatitis (AP) can mask insidious pancreatic cancer. This study found 7 patients initially diagnosed with AP later revealed advanced pancreatic cancer, highlighting the need for careful differential diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Differentiating severe acute pancreatitis (AP) from pancreatic carcinoma is diagnostically challenging.
- The coexistence of these conditions is rare but clinically significant.
- This study retrospectively analyzed surgical cases from 1980-2005.
Observation:
- Seven patients initially presenting with severe AP were later diagnosed with pancreatic carcinoma.
- Clinical and imaging findings strongly suggested AP, with significantly elevated CA19-9 antigen levels.
- Histopathology confirmed necrotic-purulent tissue, masking underlying malignancy.
Findings:
- Pancreatic carcinoma was diagnosed 3-24 months post-initial AP treatment in all seven patients.
- Metastatic carcinoma was confirmed in all cases, with pancreatic origin in six.
- Only one patient was eligible for radical Whipple surgery; others received palliative care.
Implications:
- Severe AP may insidiously coexist with pancreatic cancer.
- Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for pancreatic cancer in severe AP cases.
- Further research into diagnostic markers and management strategies for this dual presentation is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
The causes of acute pancreatitis include:
Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Acute Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Pathophysiology
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction

