Ectopic pancreatic tissue in a cholecystectomy specimen: A rare incidental pathologic finding

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Pathology
• Congenital Abnormalities

Background:

• Ectopic pancreatic tissue (EPT) is pancreatic tissue found outside its normal anatomical location without vascular or anatomical connection.
• EPT is often an incidental finding, typically discovered during investigations for other conditions.

Observation:

• A 40-year-old male presented with acute gangrenous cholecystitis requiring emergency cholecystectomy.
• Preoperative ultrasound revealed gallstones but did not identify ectopic pancreatic tissue.
• Postoperative histopathology of the gallbladder neck demonstrated ectopic pancreatic tissue.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination of the gallbladder specimen revealed ectopic pancreatic tissue.
• The ectopic pancreatic tissue was located in the gallbladder neck, presenting as wall thickening.

Implications:

• Routine histopathological examination of surgical specimens, including cholecystectomies, is crucial for detecting incidental findings like EPT.
• Awareness of EPT in the gallbladder is essential for anatomical pathologists to avoid misdiagnosis, particularly distinguishing it from malignancy.
• Precise pathological examination ensures accurate diagnosis and appropriate patient management for rare congenital anomalies.