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Published on: December 14, 2019
Pleural effusion secondary to chronic pancreatitis in childhood
Adeline Y L Lim1, Leanne M Gauld1,2
1Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine Queensland Children's Hospital Brisbane QLD Australia.
Insights
Pancreatico-pleural fistula causing pleural effusion is rare in children. This study presents two pediatric cases of chronic pancreatitis with pleural effusion, highlighting diagnostic and management considerations for this uncommon condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Thoracic Medicine
- Rare Diseases
Background:
- Pleural effusion as a complication of pancreatic disease is uncommon in pediatric patients.
- Pancreatico-pleural fistula is a rare cause of pleural effusion, particularly in children.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases of chronic pancreatitis (CP) presenting with significant pleural effusions secondary to pancreatico-pleural fistula are described.
- The cases exhibited differing clinical presentations and required tailored investigations and management approaches.
Findings:
- Successful resolution of pleural effusions was achieved in both cases through appropriate management of the underlying chronic pancreatitis.
- The study underscores the diagnostic challenges and potential complications associated with this rare pediatric condition.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering pancreatico-pleural fistula in the differential diagnosis of pediatric pleural effusions of unknown origin.
- Emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach to manage chronic pancreatitis and its thoracic complications in children.
Abstract:
Pleural effusion secondary to a pancreatico-pleural fistula is a very rare presentation in children, with limited reports in the literature. We describe two differing presentations of pleural effusions resulting from chronic pancreatitis (CP) with successful resolution of the pleural effusion. These cases highlight the need for consideration of this rare paediatric diagnosis, and the variety of investigations, management strategies, and complications that can occur in the setting of CP in children.
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