Journal of the Pancreas Open Access

  • ISSN: 1590-8577
  • Journal h-index: 82
  • Journal CiteScore: 35.06
  • Journal Impact Factor: 24.75
  • Average acceptance to publication time (5-7 days)
  • Average article processing time (30-45 days) Less than 5 volumes 30 days
    8 - 9 volumes 40 days
    10 and more volumes 45 days

Abstract

Isolated Pyogenic Pancreatic Abscess Mimicking a Neoplasm

Vui Heng Chong

Context Pancreatic abscesses are uncommon and usually occur in the setting of pancreatitis. Isolated pyogenic pancreatic abscesses without any precipitating events are extremely rare. Case report A 72-year-old man with a two month history of non-specific abdominal discomfort, distension, anorexia and weight loss was admitted for further evaluation. A computer tomography scan showed a lesion of the pancreatic head suspicious for a malignancy. Unexpectedly, Klebsialla pneumoniae was isolated from the aspiration biopsy without any evidence of malignancy. A repeat CT scan four months later showed resolution of the abscess after a six week course of antibiotic. Conclusion Our case highlights a rare case of isolated pyogenic pancreatic abscess secondary to Klebsialla pneumoniae mimicking an underlying pancreatic malignancy. Infective causes should be considered to avoid any unnecessary major surgery.