Pancreatitis, Panniculitis, and Polyarthritis Syndrome as the First Symptom of Necrotizing Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis, panniculitis, and polyarthritis (PPP) syndrome is a very rare cutaneous manifestation found in patients with acute pancreatitis. We report the case of a 44-year-old man presenting with erythematous, painful lesions on the lower extremities and ankle swelling. The rheumatology service was consulted for possible erythema nodosum. Extensive workup revealed elevated lipase and amylase levels, and computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis revealed acute pancreatitis with necrotizing lesions and peripancreatic thoracic collections. There were also changes of chronic pancreatitis. The original skin manifestations were eventually identified as pancreatic panniculitis by skin biopsy. The patient was treated for pancreatitis and pleural effusions, and his skin and joint symptoms completely resolved. Pancreatic panniculitis with polyarthritis is rare but may be the first presenting symptom of pancreatic disease. Rheumatology may be consulted for these patients especially if there are only skin and joint manifestations and no abdominal pain. Misdiagnosis of pancreatitis can lead to poorer outcomes and delay in care. Therefore, pancreatic disease should be on the differential for any patient with panniculitis and polyarthritis.