Unusual presentation of pancreatitis: Inguinoscrotal edema mimicking an incarcerated hernia - a case report.

INTRODUCTION: In rare instances, pancreatitis can manifest as inguinal edema without typical abdominal symptoms, posing diagnostic challenges. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of a man in his 40s, with alcohol addiction, who presented with left inguinal pain and swelling but no other abdominal complaints. Physical examination revealed inguinal tenderness and edema, with no hernia signs. Laboratory results showed leukocytosis and elevated C-reactive protein, inconsistent with the patient's symptoms. Abdominopelvic CT scan revealed peripancreatic fat densification and retroperitoneal fluid extending into the inguinal area. No hernia was evident. Extended analysis revealed elevated amylase and lipase levels, sustaining the diagnosis of pancreatitis. The patient responded well to supportive care and was discharged symptom-free. DISCUSSION: Acute pancreatitis emerging as an inguinoscrotal swelling, in the absence of any abdominal symptoms or signs, is extremely rare and can mimic more common causes of inguinoscrotal swellings, such as incarcerated hernias. This case highlights the ability of leaking pancreatic juice to track widely in the retroperitoneal tissues, particularly on the left side. A high level of suspicion, in combination with a CT scan, is essential for achieving an accurate diagnosis and determining the disease's extent. Failure to diagnose correctly could lead to unnecessary surgical procedures and inappropriate/delayed medical care. CONCLUSION: Inguinal edema as the sole presentation of acute pancreatitis is extremely rare. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a high index of suspicion, especially in patients with a history of alcohol consumption, in order to proceed with prompt treatment and avoid unnecessary surgery.

Pancreaticopleural fistula as the inaugural presentation of chronic pancreatitis: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Pancreaticopleural fistula is a rare complication most associated with alcohol-induced chronic pancreatitis. This usually presents with chest symptoms instead of abdominal ones. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion in patients with pancreatitis and persistent pleural effusions. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We present a case of an 81-years-old man admitted in the emergency department with a one week complaints of productive cough, fever, dyspnea and left-side chest pain. The chest X-ray revealed a moderated-volume left-side pleural effusion. The pleural fluid analysis was consistent with an exsudative pleural effusion with high levels of amylase. The thoracoabdominal CT raised the suspicion of a pancreaticopleural fistula, confirmed by ERCP. A pancreatic main duct stenting was performed with good results. The patient was discharged asymptomatic after 18 days of hospitalization. DISCUSSION: Because of PPF insidious presentation it poses a great number of differential diagnosis, so pleural fluid analysis is of paramount importance with high levels of amylase confirming the diagnosis. MRCP and ERCP may establish the fistulous tract between the pancreatic duct and the pleural cavity, with the latter being also therapeutic. CONCLUSION: The rarity of this complication related to pancreatitis and the seldomly presence of abdominal pain in contrast with chest symptoms poses a diagnostic challenge.

Median arcuate ligament syndrome: A case report of a rare disease.

INTRODUCTION: Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is a rare condition caused by the compression of the celiac trunk by the median arcuate ligament, which may trigger a typical symptom triad: postprandial abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea and vomiting. CLINICAL CASE: A 58-year-old male was admitted to the emergency department due to abdominal pain, vomiting, fever and diarrhea. On admission, the patient was tachycardic, had abdominal distension, no peritoneal irritation signs, and a serum lactate level of 5 mmol/L. The computed tomography (CT) scan showed gastric and intestinal pneumatosis associated with pneumoportia. Conservative treatment with intravenous fluids, antibiotics and low molecular weight heparin, was initiated. The reassessment CT scan showed resolution of the gastric and intestinal pneumatosis and a severe stenosis of the initial portion of the celiac trunk with associated angulation. After recovery from the acute episode, an abdominal duplex ultrasound and an aortoiliac arteriography in forced inspiration and expiration was performed, corroborating the diagnosis of MALS. A laparoscopic decompression of the celiac trunk was performed. DISCUSSION: Symptoms of MALS closely mimic other abdominal disorders, and it should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Currently, there are no international guidelines on MALS diagnostic criteria. Treatment is focused on decompression of the median arcuate ligament constriction of the celiac artery, with or without celiac lymph node removal. CONCLUSION: MALS diagnostic and therapeutic approach must be patient focused. Laparoscopic decompression is an effective treatment and can provide immediate symptomatic relief, associated with the benefits of the less invasive nature of the procedure.