Massive pancreatic ascites without carcinoma. Report of three cases

Three cases of benign pancreatic ascites have been added to 94 cases reviewed from the literature. Common characteristic of this syndrome were chronic alcoholism, intermittent abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and considerable weight loss which occurred despite fluid accumulation. Markedly elevated protein and amylase levels in the ascitic fluid, hyperamylasemia and hypoalbuminemia were the major diagnostic clues as to the pancreatic origin of ascites. Predominant pathological findings were chronic pancreatitis with or without pseudocysts, pancreatic duct disruption, lesion which were considered to be the major pathogenic factor besides lymphatic obstruction by leaking pancreatic juice into the peritoneal cavity. Early laparotomy for diagnosis and treatment is essential. ERP might be of great value in diagnosis.