Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas: a rare tumor case report

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas is a rare tumor, accounting for about 0.3-2.7% of pancreatic neoplasms. It mainly affects young women aged 20-40 years and usually presents as an asymptomatic abdominal mass. Although typically indolent, approximately 15% exhibit malignant potential. Complete surgical resection is curative in most cases.

A 28-year-old woman was referred for a general surgery consultation due to a suspected adrenal gland mass that had been monitored in her country of origin. The patient was asymptomatic, with normal laboratory results and negative tumor markers. Due to an allergy to iodinated contrast, magnetic resonance imaging was performed, confirming findings compatible with an encapsulated pancreatic lesion measuring 112 × 86 × 80 mm. Elective laparoscopic surgery revealed a well-defined mass in contact with the pancreatic tail that was completely excised without complications. Histopathological examination confirmed a solid pseudopapillary neoplasm, with strong β-catenin staining and negative surgical margins. The patient remains asymptomatic under regular follow-up, with no recurrence to date.

SPN is a low-grade malignant tumor with an excellent prognosis after complete resection. Diagnosis may be challenging due to overlap with other pancreatic masses, particularly in contrast-restricted studies, and confirmation via β-catenin immunohistochemistry is pivotal. Surgical excision is both diagnostic and therapeutic.

Although rare, SPN should be considered in young women with pancreatic masses. Early recognition and complete surgical removal offer curative outcomes and excellent long-term survival. Minimally invasive, parenchyma-sparing techniques should be considered safe and effective options, particularly in young patients.