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Spontaneous bile duct rupture in pregnancy
J J Piotrowski1, G Van Stiegmann, R D Liechty
1Department of Surgery, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver.
Summary
Spontaneous bile duct rupture is a rare event, with only 40 adult cases reported. This case highlights a novel association with pregnancy, presenting unique diagnostic and management challenges.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Hepatology
- Surgical Case Reports
Background:
- Spontaneous bile duct rupture (SBDR) is a rare condition, with fewer than 40 adult cases documented previously.
- Biliary calculi are the most common cause, implicated in 70% of reported perforations.
- SBDR has not been previously associated with pregnancy.
Observation:
- A 23-year-old pregnant patient presented with spontaneous bile duct rupture.
- The patient required an emergency Cesarean section due to fetal distress.
- Perforation sites were identified in both the common hepatic duct and common bile duct.
Findings:
- This case represents the first reported instance of spontaneous bile duct rupture in pregnancy.
- The patient's presentation and rupture location add to the limited understanding of SBDR etiology.
- Management strategies for SBDR were adapted for the pregnant patient.
Implications:
- This case expands the known clinical spectrum of spontaneous bile duct rupture.
- It underscores the importance of considering rare gastrointestinal emergencies in pregnant patients.
- Further research is needed to understand the potential link between pregnancy and SBDR.