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Meandering Main Pancreatic Duct in Association with Choledochal Cysts and Acute Pancreatitis in Pediatrics
Abstract:
Meandering main pancreatic duct (MMPD) is an uncommon anomaly of the main pancreatic duct characterized by an abnormal curvature at the pancreatic head region. This variant can be diagnosed on imaging, particularly magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). Although its clinical significance remains debatable, recent research suggests an association with recurrent acute pancreatitis. To our knowledge, no pediatric cases of acute or recurrent acute pancreatitis have been attributed to the presence of MMPD. In this article, we report on two patients. The first case is of a 15-year-old girl with MMPD discovered on investigation of idiopathic acute pancreatitis. The second case is of a 5-year-old boy who presented with his second episode of acute pancreatitis. In this patient, MRCP imaging revealed MMPD and type IVA choledochal cyst. With appropriate care, both patients experienced clinical improvement with resolution of abdominal pain. This article highlights MMPD as a distinct entity that should be considered in pediatric patients with recurrent attacks of acute pancreatitis. This report also describes the first association of MMPD with choledochal cysts. [Pediatr Ann. 2019;48(10):e412-e416.].
Insights
Meandering main pancreatic duct (MMPD), an uncommon anomaly, is linked to recurrent acute pancreatitis in children. This report details two pediatric cases, including the first association of MMPD with choledochal cysts.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Meandering main pancreatic duct (MMPD) is a rare pancreatic duct anomaly.
- Its clinical significance, especially in pediatric recurrent acute pancreatitis, is not well-established.
- Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is key for diagnosing MMPD.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases of recurrent acute pancreatitis associated with MMPD are presented.
- Case 1: A 15-year-old girl with idiopathic acute pancreatitis and diagnosed MMPD.
- Case 2: A 5-year-old boy with his second acute pancreatitis episode, showing MMPD and a type IVA choledochal cyst.
Findings:
- MMPD was diagnosed in both pediatric patients presenting with recurrent acute pancreatitis.
- This study reports the first known association between MMPD and choledochal cysts.
- Both patients showed clinical improvement and symptom resolution with management.
Implications:
- MMPD should be considered in the differential diagnosis for pediatric recurrent acute pancreatitis.
- The findings suggest a potential link between MMPD and recurrent pancreatitis in children.
- This report expands understanding of pancreatic duct anomalies and their pediatric manifestations.
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