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Pancreatic pseudocyst causing celiac artery trunk thrombosis
Christopher Challand1, Daniel Titcomb, Christopher P Armstrong
1Gastroenterology Directorate, Derriford Hospital, Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust, Plymouth, United Kingdom. chrischalland@hotmail.com
JOP : Journal of the Pancreas
|July 24, 2008
Summary
Vascular complications, like arterial thrombosis, can cause sudden deterioration in pancreatitis patients. Prompt diagnosis with CT scans and early surgery are crucial for successful outcomes in these rare cases.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- Vascular complications, particularly arterial thrombosis, are rare but serious consequences of pancreatitis.
- These complications are more frequent in alcohol-induced pancreatitis and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.
- Peripancreatic arterial obstruction often presents as sudden clinical deterioration, necessitating rapid diagnosis and intervention.
Observation:
- A case report details a 42-year-old woman with a pancreatic pseudocyst who experienced acute abdominal pain and gastric necrosis.
- Initial investigations were inconclusive, but subsequent contrast-enhanced CT revealed gastric wall thickening and intramural gas.
- The patient underwent laparotomy due to sudden clinical deterioration, revealing gastric and splenic infarction.
Findings:
- Contrast-enhanced CT is vital for diagnosing arterial thrombosis in pancreatitis patients.
- Surgical intervention, including total gastrectomy and splenectomy in this case, can lead to successful recovery.
- Prompt diagnosis and early surgical management are key to improving outcomes for arterial thrombosis secondary to pancreatitis.
Implications:
- Arterial thrombosis should be a key consideration in pancreatitis patients presenting with acute deterioration.
- Early diagnosis via contrast-enhanced CT and prompt surgical intervention can significantly improve patient outcomes.
- This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex vascular complications of pancreatitis.
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