Intragastric Balloon-Induced Pancreatitis in a 21-Year-Old Male: A Case-Based Review

Intragastric balloon (IGB) placement is a temporary, minimally invasive weight loss intervention that is generally well tolerated; however, it may be associated with complications. While most adverse effects are mild, acute pancreatitis is a rare but potentially serious complication, most commonly attributed to extrinsic pancreatic compression. We report a case of acute pancreatitis developing eight weeks after IGB insertion in a 21-year-old male. The patient presented with severe epigastric pain radiating to the back and repeated vomiting following binge eating. Laboratory testing revealed markedly elevated serum lipase at 3,217 U/L (reference <60 U/L) and elevated CRP at 10.7 mg/L, with normal liver function tests, calcium, and triglyceride levels. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography demonstrated diffuse pancreatic enlargement with peripancreatic fat stranding, consistent with acute interstitial edematous pancreatitis. The Bedside Index of Severity in Acute Pancreatitis score was 0. With gallstones, alcohol use, and metabolic causes excluded, pancreatitis was attributed to extrinsic pancreatic compression from the IGB, precipitated by gastric distention. The patient improved with conservative management and was discharged after one week. Acute pancreatitis is a rare but serious complication of IGB placement. This case emphasizes the need for clinicians to maintain a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with epigastric pain after the procedure, particularly following dietary indiscretion.