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Ectopic pancreas presenting with pancreatitis and a mesenteric mass
Michael Ginsburg1, Osman Ahmed, Kuntal A Rana
1Department of Radiology, University of Chicago Medical Center, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637, USA. michael.ginsburg@uchospitals.edu
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|January 22, 2013
Summary
Ectopic pancreatitis, though rare in children, should be considered in pediatric patients presenting with acute abdominal pain and pancreatitis indicators. This case highlights a 15-year-old female with mesenteric ectopic pancreas diagnosed after initial imaging suggested a soft tissue mass.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Ectopic pancreas is pancreatic tissue found outside its normal location, possessing its own vasculature and duct system.
- While common in the gastrointestinal tract in adults, pediatric cases of ectopic pancreatitis are exceedingly rare, with only two previously reported.
- This condition requires careful consideration in pediatric differential diagnoses for acute abdominal pain.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old female presented with acute right upper quadrant pain and elevated lipase and amylase levels.
- Radiological imaging indicated a mesenteric soft tissue mass with surrounding inflammation.
- Surgical pathology confirmed the diagnosis of mesenteric ectopic pancreas with superimposed pancreatitis.
Findings:
- The case details a rare instance of pediatric ectopic pancreatitis.
- Diagnosis was challenging, initially appearing as a mesenteric mass on imaging.
- Histopathological examination was crucial for definitive diagnosis.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider ectopic pancreatitis in pediatric patients with unexplained acute abdominal pain and pancreatitis markers.
- Imaging findings of a mesenteric mass alongside normal orthotopic pancreas warrant investigation for ectopic pancreatitis.
- Increased awareness and reporting of pediatric ectopic pancreatitis cases are needed to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.
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