"Paraduodenal" pancreatitis: results of surgery on 58 consecutives patients from a single institution

Pancreaticoduodenectomy with Anatomical Vascular Variant in Groove Pancreatitis-A Case Report

Groove pancreatitis represents a chronic focal form of pancreatitis affecting the zone between the pancreatic head and the duodenal "C" loop, known as the groove area. This is a rare condition that affects the pancreatic periampullary part, including the duodenum and the common bile duct, which is usually associated with long-term alcohol and tobacco misuse, and is more frequent in men than in women. The most common clinical symptoms of groove pancreatitis include weight loss, acute abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice. This report is about a 66-year-old woman with a history of heavy smoking, presenting with weight loss, nausea, and upper abdominal pain. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed the existence of chronic pancreatitis as well as the dilatation of the main pancreatic duct, a cyst of the pancreatic head, and enlargement of the biliary tract. Conservatory treatment was initiated but with no improvement of symptoms. Since endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was not possible due to the local changes, we decided to perform pancreatoduodenectomy, as surgery appears to be the single effective treatment.

Unraveling the Narrow Alley: A Case Report of Groove Pancreatitis

Groove pancreatitis, a rare subtype of chronic pancreatitis, predominantly affects middle-aged men with a history of alcohol abuse. We present a unique case of a 31-year-old female with minimal alcohol consumption. Imaging revealed characteristic findings consistent with groove pancreatitis. Despite its rarity in young females, clinical suspicion led to the appropriate diagnosis and conservative management, resulting in symptomatic resolution. This case underscores the importance of recognizing atypical presentations of groove pancreatitis, emphasizing the necessity of tailored diagnostic approaches, and highlighting the efficacy of conservative management in achieving favorable outcomes, particularly in non-typical demographics.

Diagnostic value of endoscopic ultrasound in groove pancreatitis

Aim: Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare type of chronic pancreatitis characterized by varying degrees of thickening and scarring of the duodenal wall, duodenal lumen stenosis, mucosal hypertrophy with plicae and cyst formation. GP is primarily observed in middle-aged male patients with a history of alcohol consumption. Clinical symptoms are usually non-specific, and there is currently no unified diagnostic standard. However, imaging methods, particularly endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), are useful for diagnosis. EUS-guided biopsy can provide a strong basis for the final diagnosis. This review summarizes the value of EUS and its derivative technologies in the diagnosis, differential diagnosis and treatment of GP.Methods: After searching in PubMed and Web of Science databases using 'groove pancreatitis (GP)' and 'endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)' as keywords, studies related were compiled and examined.Results: EUS and its derivative technologies are of great significance in the diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment of GP, but there are still limitations that need to be comprehensively applied with other diagnostic methods to obtain the most accurate results.Conclusion: EUS has unique value in both the diagnosis and treatment of GP. Clinicians need to be well-versed in the advantages and limitations of EUS for GP diagnosis to select the most suitable imaging diagnostic method for different cases and to reduce the unnecessary waste of medical resources.

Systematic review on groove pancreatitis: management of a rare disease

BACKGROUND

Groove pancreatitis is a focal form of chronic pancreatitis affecting the area of the paraduodenal groove. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of patients with groove pancreatitis.

METHODS

Medical literature databases (Embase, Medline via PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) were systematically searched for data recorded between 1 January 1990 and 31 August 2022 regarding patient characteristics, diagnosis, surgical treatment and outcomes. The following inclusion criteria were applied: RCTs, observational studies (cohort and case-control studies) and case studies with >3 cases including patients with groove pancreatitis undergoing medical, endoscopic or surgical treatment with available clinical and diagnostic data. Fisher's exact test for binary data and Mann-Whitney U test or Student t-test for continuous data were adopted for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Of 649 studies, 44 were included, involving reports on 1404 patients with a mean age of 49 years. In 41 of the 44 studies in which patient gender was described, 86 per cent (N = 1023) of patients were male. Information on the risk factors of alcohol and nicotine was available in 37 and 23 studies, respectively. Seventy-nine per cent (N = 886) of patients had a history of excessive alcohol consumption and 83 per cent (N = 595) were smokers. Information on clinical symptoms was available in 37 of the 44 included studies and 78.5 per cent (N = 870) presented with abdominal pain. Some 27 studies comprising 920 groove pancreatitis patients were treatment oriented. Seventy-four per cent (N = 682) of patients were treated conservatively, 26.4 per cent (N = 134) underwent endoscopic treatment and 54.7 per cent (N = 503) required surgery. There was complete relief of symptoms in 35.6 per cent (N = 243) after conservative treatment, 55.2 per cent (N = 74) after endoscopic treatment and 69.6 per cent (N = 350) after surgical treatment. The median follow-up time was 42 months (range, 1-161 months).

CONCLUSION

Groove pancreatitis shows on imaging a typical triad: cystic lesions in the pancreatic duct or duodenal wall, calcifications, and thickenings of the duodenal wall. Surgery appears to be the most effective treatment modality.

Duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection or pancreatoduodenectomy for the surgical treatment of paraduodenal pancreatitis: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Paraduodenal pancreatitis (PDP) is an uncommon yet well-described type of focal chronic pancreatitis. The aim of our study was to compare the outcomes of surgical treatment of patients with PDP using pancreatoduodenectomy and duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection (DPPHR).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 153 consecutive patients with PDP was performed. Patients who were treated with either DPPHR or PD were enrolled. The primary endpoint of the study was pain control achieved at the time of follow-up. The secondary endpoints of the study were complication rate (Clavien-Dindo > 2), hospital length of stay, and 90-day mortality. All patients were followed up after discharge for the assessment of pain cessation for a minimal period of 10 months.

RESULTS

The final study population consisted of 71 patients. A total of 14 patients (19.7%) underwent pancreatoduodenectomy, and 57 (80.3%) were managed with DPPHR. Complication rate was significantly lower in DPPHR group at χ² = 4.2677, p < 0.05. Mean hospital length of stay was 9.3 days (range 3-29) in DPPHR group and 13.9 days (range 7-35) in PD group (p < 0.05). No postoperative mortality was recorded. The mean follow-up period of the patients after surgery was 41.8 ± 20.6 months (range 10-88). Pain scores at the time of operation were calculated as 50.9 ± 12.1 in DPPHR group and 56.1 ± 11.4 in PD group. At the time of follow-up, pain scores improved significantly in both groups and were 10.3 ± 8.8 and 10.9 ± 8.6, respectively.

CONCLUSION

DPPHR achieves similar results in pain control as PD with a lower complication rate and shorter hospital LOS.

Surgical Management of Groove Pancreatitis: A Case Report

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a chronic type of pancreatitis involving the groove area between the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, and the common bile duct. Alcohol abuse is one of the main pathogenetic factors, although its etiology is not clearly defined. Differential diagnosis of pancreatic disorders remains difficult. The lack of diagnostic management and the restrictive number of patients are the main barriers. This article presents a case of a 37-year-old male diagnosed with GP after several episodes of epigastric pain and vomiting, with a history of chronic alcohol consumption. The patient's radiological and laboratory results excluded the possibility of malignancy and suggested the diagnosis of groove pancreatitis with duodenal stenosis. After initial conservative treatment failed, surgical management was decided. A gastroenteroanastomosis was made in order to bypass the duodenum aiming for a total resolution of the symptoms and an uneventful recovery of the patient. Although most studies suggest pancreatoduodenectomy (Whipple's procedure) as the treatment of choice, a less major procedure can be performed in evidence of malignancy absence.

Cystic dystrophy in heterotopic pancreas

Cystic dystrophy in heterotopic pancreas, or paraduodenal pancreatitis, is a rare and complicated presentation involving heterotopic pancreatic tissue in the duodenal wall. This condition is present in 5% of the general population but disease mainly affects middle-aged alcoholic-smoking men with chronic pancreatitis (CP). It may be purely duodenal or segmental (pancreatico-duodenopathy). Its pathophysiology arises from alcohol toxicity with obstruction of small ducts of heterotopic pancreatic tissue present in the duodenal wall and the pancreatic-duodenal sulcus, leading to repeated episodes of pancreatitis. The symptomatology includes episodes of acute pancreatitis, weight loss, and vomiting due to duodenal obstruction. Imaging shows thickening of the wall of the second portion of the duodenum with multiple small cysts. A stepwise therapeutic approach is preferred. Conservative medical treatment is favored in first intention (analgesics, continuous enteral feeding, somatostatin analogues), which allows complete symptomatic regression in 57% of cases associated with a 5% rate of complications (arterial thrombosis and diabetes). Endoscopic treatment may also be associated with conservative measures. Surgery achieves a complete regression of symptoms in 79% of cases but with a 20% rate of complications. Surgery is indicated in case of therapeutic failure or in case of doubt about a malignant tumor. Pancreaticoduodenectomy and duodenal resection with pancreatic preservation (PPDR) seem to be the most effective treatments. PPDR has also been proposed as a first-line treatment for purely duodenal location of paraduodenal pancreatitis, thereby preventing progression to an extended segmental form.

Imaging of paraduodenal pancreatitis: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Paraduodenal pancreatitis (PP) represents a diagnostic challenge, especially in non-referral centers, given its potential imaging overlap with pancreatic cancer. There are two main histological variants of PP, the cystic and the solid, with slightly different imaging appearances. Moreover, imaging findings in PP may change over time because of disease progression and/or as an effect of its risk factors exposition, namely alcohol intake and smoking.

AIM

To describe multimodality imaging findings in patients affected by PP to help clinicians in the differential diagnosis with pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

The systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses 2009 guidelines. A Literature search was performed on PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library using (groove pancreatitis [Title/Abstract]) OR (PP [Title/Abstract]) as key words. A total of 593 articles were considered for inclusion. After eliminating duplicates, and title and abstract screening, 53 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. Eligibility criteria were: Original studies including 8 or more patients, fully written in English, describing imaging findings in PP, with pathological confirmation or clinical-radiological follow-up as the gold standard. Finally, 14 studies were included in our systematic review.

RESULTS

Computed tomography (CT) findings were described in 292 patients, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in 231 and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) findings in 115. Duodenal wall thickening was observed in 88.8% of the cases: Detection rate was 96.5% at EUS, 91.0% at MRI and 84.1% at CT. Second duodenal portion increased enhancement was recognizable in 76.3% of the cases: Detection rate was 84.4% at MRI and 72.1% at CT. Cysts within the duodenal wall were detected in 82.6% of the cases: Detection rate was 94.4% at EUS, 81.9% at MRI and 75.7% at CT. A solid mass in the groove region was described in 40.9% of the cases; in 78.3% of the cases, it showed patchy enhancement in the portal venous phase, and in 100% appeared iso/hyperintense during delayed phase imaging. Only 3.6% of the lesions showed restricted diffusion. The prevalence of radiological signs of chronic obstructive pancreatitis, namely main pancreatic duct dilatation, pancreatic calcifications, and pancreatic cysts, was extremely variable in the different articles.

CONCLUSION

PP has peculiar imaging findings. MRI is the best radiological imaging modality for diagnosing PP, but EUS is more accurate than MRI in depicting duodenal wall alterations.

Groove Pancreatitis: A Case Report and Review of a Hidden Type of Chronic Pancreatitis

Groove pancreatitis is a chronic type of segmental or focal pancreatitis seen to affect the groove, which is the region between the head of the pancreas, the duodenum, and the common bile duct. Despite its incidence remaining unknown, it accounts for 2.7% to 24.5% of pancreaticoduodenectomies performed for chronic pancreatitis. A diverse etiology has been implicated but the exact cause is yet to be identified. As it closely mimics pancreatic malignancy and remains mostly undiagnosed preoperatively, many patients often end up undergoing a pancreaticoduodenectomy. Awareness of this entity and early diagnosis will help us address this issue with more conservative measures than by resorting to a morbid procedure such as a pancreaticoduodenectomy.

We report a case of a 50-year-old male, a chronic alcoholic, with a two-year history of upper abdominal pain, postprandial vomiting, and weight loss. An abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) scan was suggestive of either a pancreatic malignancy or a possibility of groove pancreatitis. However, postoperative histopathological examination confirmed the lesser known groove pancreatitis. Here, we review the clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics of groove pancreatitis, as its diagnosis and management still pose a challenge.

Could it be groove pancreatitis? A frequently misdiagnosed condition with a surgical solution

Background

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is an underrecognised subtype of chronic pancreatitis, focally affecting the area between the duodenum and pancreatic head. It most commonly affects males between 40 and 50 years of age with a history of alcohol misuse. Patients most commonly complain of abdominal pain and vomiting. Due to its focal nature, it is a potentially surgically treatable form of chronic pancreatitis. We report results of patients surgically treated for groove pancreatitis followed by a literature review of patient outcomes post resection.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients with histopathologically confirmed GP post‐surgical resection at the Princess Alexandra Hospital and Greenslopes Private Hospital in Brisbane, Australia was conducted between 2013 and 2020. Diagnosis was confirmed histologically when Brunner gland hyperplasia and chronic inflammation/fibrosis were found within the pancreaticoduodenal interface. Preoperative and postoperative symptoms were analysed along with complications. Additionally, a systematic review on outcomes of patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) for GP was performed from three databases.

Results

Eight patients underwent surgery for GP. Elimination of preoperative symptoms was achieved in five of the eight patients. Major complications included one take back to theatre for pancreatic leak. Our literature review found complete resolution of pain and vomiting in 80% of GP patients after PD.

Conclusion

Optimal management of GP begins with early recognition. Symptoms from GP are likely to respond well to surgical intervention. We advocate for aggressive surgical resection in a patient with a high index of suspicion for GP.

Outcome of Whipple's procedure for Groove pancreatitis: A retrospective cross-sectional study

Background

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis primarily affecting the pancreatoduodenal groove. Very few studies have been published from India. The aim of the present study is to report our experience with Whipple's procedure for GP.

Methodology

In this cross-sectional study, data of all patients who underwent Whipple's procedure for GP between August 2007 and July 2021 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Of the total 504 Whipple's procedures, histopathologically proven GP was identified in 9 patients. All of them were male. Mean age at presentation was 42.66 ± 4.35 years. All of them had history of alcohol abuse. Eight (88.8%) of them had history of smoking. Postprandial abdominal discomfort and pain (n = 9, 100%) was the most common presenting symptom. Three (33.3%) patients had solid variety and six (66.6%) patients had cystic dystrophy of the duodenal wall. Two (22.2%) patients had mass in the head of the pancreas which was thought to be malignant. None of the patients underwent prior endoscopic management (stenting). Duration of surgery and blood loss was 330 (range, 300–379) minutes, and 250 (range, 200–750) ml respectively. There was no postoperative mortality. Postoperative complications developed in 5 (55.5%) patients. All the complications were managed conservatively. Median postoperative hospital stay was 10 (range, 9–16) days. Over a median follow-up of 41 (range, 12–120) months, complete remission of symptoms was achieved in 7 (78%) patients.

Conclusion

Whipple's procedure is safe with acceptable perioperative outcomes and good long-term symptom control.

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Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis which involves the pancreatoduodenal groove.

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It is difficult to differentiate GP from pancreatic head malignancy preoperatively

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Whipple's procedure in GP has acceptable perioperative morbidity and mortality and long-term good results.

CT imaging patterns of paraduodenal pancreatitis: a unique clinicoradiological entity

AIM

To analyse the computed tomography (CT) findings of paraduodenal pancreatitis (PP) in patients treated at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Clinical, laboratory, and CT findings of 30 patients with PP treated from July 2007 to December 2020 were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 45.9 years (19-60 years), which included 29 (96.7%) men, and 90% had a history of alcohol abuse. The majority [22 (73.3%)] presented with recurrent abdominal pain. Serum amylase was elevated in 21 (70%) patients and serum lipase was elevated in 25 (83.3%) patients. Carbohydrate antigen (CA 19-9) was elevated in three (10%) patients. The cystic pattern was seen in three (10%), solid pattern in 13 (43.3%), and solid-cystic pattern in 14 (46.7%) patients. The pure form of the disease was seen in seven (23.3%) patients, whereas the segmental form was seen in 23 (76.7%) patients. Descending duodenal wall thickening and enhancement was seen in 25 (83.3%) and 18 (60%) patients, respectively. The gastroduodenal artery was displaced medially in 12 (40%) patients and encased in five (16.7%) patients; however, it was not occluded in any of the patients. Calcifications were seen in the groove lesion in nine (30%) patients. The pancreas showed atrophic changes in 14 (46.6%) patients and calcifications in 12 (40%) patients. Distal common bile duct strictures were seen in three (10%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of sheet-like soft-tissue thickening in the groove with diffuse duodenal thickening and intramural/paraduodenal cysts are highly suggestive of PP. Identifying characteristic imaging findings of PP may help in prospective diagnosis and lead to conservative management of most of these patients avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures.

Clinical classification of symptomatic heterotopic pancreas of the stomach and duodenum: A case series and systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

Heterotopic pancreas (HP) is an aberrant anatomic malformation that occurs most commonly in the upper gastrointestinal tract. While the majority of heterotopic pancreatic lesions are asymptomatic, many manifest severe clinical symptoms which require surgical or endoscopic intervention. Understanding of the clinical manifestations and symptoms of HP is limited due to the lack of large volume studies in the literature. The purpose of this study is to review symptomatic cases at a single center and compare these to a systematic review of the literature in order to characterize common clinical manifestations and treatment of this disease.

AIM

To classify the common clinical manifestations of heterotopic pancreas.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of pathologic samples containing heterotopic pancreas from 2000-2018. Review was limited to HP of the upper gastrointestinal tract due to the frequency of presentation in this location. Symptomatic patients were identified from review of the medical records and clinical symptoms were tabulated. These were compared to a systematic review of the literature utilizing PubMed and Embase searches for papers pertaining to heterotopic pancreas. Publications describing symptomatic presentation of HP were selected for review. Information including demographics, symptoms, presentation and treatment were compiled and analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patient were identified with HP at a single center, with six of these identified has having clinical symptoms. Clinical manifestations included, gastrointestinal bleeding, gastric ulceration with/without perforation, pancreatitis, and gastric outlet obstruction. Systemic review of the literature yielded 232 publications detailing symptomatic cases with only 20 studies describing ten or more patients. Single and multi-patient studies were combined to form a cohort of 934 symptomatic patients. The majority of patients presented with abdominal pain (67%) combined with one of the following clinical categories: (1) Dyspepsia, (n = 445, 48%); (2) Pancreatitis (n = 260, 28%); (3) Gastrointestinal bleeding (n = 80, 9%); and (4) Gastric outlet obstruction (n = 80, 9%). The majority of cases (n = 832, 90%) underwent surgical or endoscopic resection with 85% reporting resolution or improvement in their symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Heterotopic pancreas can cause significant clinical symptoms in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Better understanding and classification of this disease may result in more accurate identification and treatment of this malformation.

Paraduodenal pancreatitis - problem in the groove

BACKGROUND

Paraduodenal pancreatitis (PDP) is a particular form of chronic pancreatitis (CP) occurring in and around the duodenal wall. Despite its low prevalence, this rare condition presents a significant challenge in clinical practice.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed the electronic medical charts of all patients with a diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis and identified those with PDP, between January 1999 and December 2020.

RESULTS

There were 35 patients diagnosed with PDP (86% males and 14% females); median age of 56 ± 11 (range 38-80). Alcohol overconsumption was reported in 81% and smoking in 90% of patients. Abdominal pain was the leading symptom (71%), followed by weight loss, nausea and vomiting, jaundice, and diarrhoea. In 23 patients (66%), recurrent acute pancreatitis attacks were noted. Focal duodenal wall thickening was present in 34 patients (97%), cystic lesions in 80%, pancreatic duct dilatation in 54% and common bile duct dilatation in 46%. Endoscopic treatment was performed on nine patients (26%) and five patients (14%) underwent surgery. Complete symptom relief was reported in 12 patients (34%), partial symptom relief in three (9%), there was no improvement in five (14%), data were not available in three (9%) and 12 (34%) patients died before data analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

PDP is a rare form of pancreatitis, most commonly occurring in the 5th or 6th decade of life, with a predominance in males and patients with a history of smoking and high alcohol consumption. Focal thickening and cystic lesions of the duodenal wall are the most common imaging findings, followed by pancreatic duct and common bile duct dilatation. A minority of patients requires surgery.

Inflammatory and tumor-like lesions of the pancreas

Inflammatory/tumor-like lesions of the pancreas represent a heterogeneous group of diseases that can variably involve the pancreatic gland determining different signs and symptoms. In the category of inflammatory/tumor-like lesions of the pancreas, the most important entities are represented by chronic pancreatitis, which includes alcoholic, obstructive and hereditary pancreatitis, paraduodenal (groove) pancreatitis, autoimmune pancreatitis, lymphoepithelial cyst, pancreatic hamartoma and intrapancreatic accessory spleen. An in-depth knowledge of such diseases is essential, since they can cause severe morbidity and may represent a potential life-threatening risk for patients. Furthermore, in some cases the differential diagnosis with malignant tumors may be challenging. Herein we provide a general overview of all these categories, with the specific aim of highlighting their most important clinic-pathological hallmarks to be used in routine diagnostic activities and clinical practice.

Diagnosis, natural course and treatment outcomes of groove pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis with limited data on its diagnostics and treatment outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess its diagnostics, natural course, and treatment options.

METHODS

The study is a retrospective population-based study from Southern Finland, including all patients with suspected GP between January 2005 and December 2015. Two certified gastrointestinal radiologists re-reviewed the imaging studies. The radiological re-review, clinical judgment, and final histopathology confirmed the GP diagnoses.

RESULTS

Out of 67 patients with possible GP, 39 patients were considered to have high radiological certainty of GP. Out of these 39, five patients had cancer instead. Thirty-three patients with confirmed GP formed the final study cohort. Patients with GP were mostly middle-aged (median 55 years) men. All had at least moderate alcohol consumption. No intervention was needed in 14 patients. In five-year follow-up all conservatively treated patients became asymptomatic, while 10 out of 16 patients undergoing at least one intervention were asymptomatic at five years.

CONCLUSION

The radiological diagnosis of GP is difficult, and a low threshold for cancer suspicion should be kept. Symptoms of GP decrease with time and suggest conservative treatment as the first-line option.

Pancreas-preserving duodenal resections vs pancreatoduodenectomy for groove pancreatitis. Should we revisit treatment algorithm for groove pancreatitis?

BACKGROUND

The management of cystic dystrophy of the duodenal wall (CDDW), or groove pancreatitis (GP), remains controversial. Although pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is considered the most suitable operation for CDDW, pancreas-preserving duodenal resection (PPDR) has also been suggested as an alternative for the pure form of GP (isolated CDDW). There are no studies comparing PD and PPDR for this disease.

AIM

To compare the safety, efficacy, and short- and long-term results of PD and PPDR in patients with CDDW.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the clinical, radiologic, pathologic, and intra- and postoperative data of 84 patients with CDDW (2004-2020) and a comparison of the safety and efficacy of PD and PPDR.

RESULTS

Symptoms included abdominal pain (100%), weight loss (76%), vomiting (30%) and jaundice (18%) and data from computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and endoUS led to the correct preoperative diagnosis in 98.8% of cases. Twelve patients were treated conservatively with pancreaticoenterostomy (n = 8), duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection (n = 6), PD (n = 44) and PPDR (n = 15) without mortality. Weight gain was significantly higher after PD and PPDR and complete pain control was achieved significantly more often after PPDR (93%) and PD (84%) compared to the other treatment modalities (18%). New onset diabetes mellitus and severe exocrine insufficiency occurred after PD (31% and 14%), but not after PPDR.

CONCLUSION

PPDR has similar safety and better efficacy than PD in patients with CDDW and may be the optimal procedure for the isolated form of CDDW. The pure form of GP is a duodenal disease and PD may be an overtreatment for this disease. Early detection of CDDW provides an opportunity for pancreas-preserving surgery.

Surgical management of groove pancreatitis: a case report

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis involving the groove area bound by the pancreatic head, the duodenum, and the common bile duct. The diagnosis of this entity is challenging since it can mimic pancreatic carcinoma. We herein report the case of groove pancreatitis diagnosed in a 37 year old men, with a past history of chronic alcohol consumption. The patient was admitted for several times over the past three years because of recurrent alcohol-induced pancreatitis. The diagnosis of groove pancreatitis was made on the basis of CT, MRI and EUS findings. A medical treatment was initially attempted. In the absence of improvement in clinical symptoms, a pancreatico-duodenectomy was performed with satisfying results at 24 months follow up. Pancreatico-duodenectomy is the treatment of choice in groove pancreatitis since it leads to total resolution of clinical symptoms.

Groove pancreatitis: a clinical and imaging overview

Groove or paraduodenal pancreatitis is an uncommon fibroinflammatory form of pancreatitis involving the anatomic space of the pancreatic groove located between the C-loop of the duodenum and the head of the pancreas. Although in some patients there are distinctive clinical and imaging features of groove pancreatitis (GP), there is often significant overlap with other infiltrative processes involving the pancreatic groove such as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma or duodenal carcinoma. In this review, we summarize the most distinctive clinical and imaging aspects of GP and highlight some important distinguishing features that may aid in differentiating malignant lesions involving the pancreatic groove.

International consensus guidelines for surgery and the timing of intervention in chronic pancreatitis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a complex inflammatory disease with pain as the predominant symptom. Pain relief can be achieved using invasive interventions such as endoscopy and surgery. This paper is part of the international consensus guidelines on CP and presents the consensus guideline for surgery and timing of intervention in CP.

METHODS

An international working group with 15 experts on CP surgery from the major pancreas societies (IAP, APA, JPS, and EPC) evaluated 20 statements generated from evidence on 5 questions deemed to be the most clinically relevant in CP. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to evaluate the level of evidence available for each statement. To determine the level of agreement, the working group voted on the 20 statements for strength of agreement, using a nine-point Likert scale in order to calculate Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient.

RESULTS

Strong consensus was obtained for the following statements: Surgery in CP is indicated as treatment of intractable pain and local complications of adjacent organs, and in case of suspicion of malignant (cystic) lesion; Early surgery is favored over surgery in a more advanced stage of disease to achieve optimal long-term pain relief; In patients with an enlarged pancreatic head, a combined drainage and resection procedure, such as the Frey, Beger, and Berne procedure, may be the treatment of choice; Pancreaticoduodenectomy is the most suitable surgical option for patients with groove pancreatitis; The risk of pancreatic carcinoma in patients with CP is too low (2% in 10 year) to recommend active screening or prophylactic surgery; Patients with hereditary CP have such a high risk of pancreatic cancer that prophylactic resection can be considered (lifetime risk of 40-55%). Weak agreement for procedure choice in patients with dilated duct and normal size pancreatic head: both the extended lateral pancreaticojejunostomy and Frey procedure seems to provide equivalent pain control in patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This international expert consensus guideline provides evidenced-based statements concerning key aspects in surgery and timing of intervention in CP. It is meant to guide clinical practitioners and surgeons in the treatment of patients with CP.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy for paraduodenal pancreatitis is associated with a higher incidence of diabetes but a similar quality of life and pain control when compared to medical treatment

BACKGROUND

Paraduodenal pancreatitis is a focal form of chronic pancreatitis that affects the groove area between the duodenum and the head of the pancreas. Consensus regarding surgical or nonsurgical management as the best treatment option is still lacking.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated all patients managed for PP at The Pancreas Institute of the University Hospital Trust of Verona from 1990 to 2017. The outcomes of surgical vs. medical treatment with regard to pain control, quality of life and pancreatic insufficiency were evaluated through specific questionnaires.

RESULTS

The final study population consisted of 75 patients: 62.6% underwent surgery, and 37.4% were managed without surgery. All surgical procedures consisted of pancreaticoduodenectomy. The median follow-up from the diagnosis of paraduodenal pancreatitis was 60 (12-240) months. Patients who underwent surgery experienced a similar incidence of steatorrhea (44.7 vs. 52.6%; p = 0.4) but a significantly higher incidence of diabetes (59.6 vs. 10.7%; p < 0.01) when compared to those managed without surgery. There was no difference in terms of reported chronic pain (Graded Chronic Pain Scale, median 0 vs. 1; p = 0.1) and quality of life (Pancreatitis QoL Instrument, median 82 vs. 79; p = 0.2). However, surgical patients reported a worse level of self-care activities associated with glycemic control (Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire, median 20 vs. 28, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

In patients affected by paraduodenal pancreatitis, surgery and medical therapy seem to obtain similar results in terms of quality of life and pain control. However, surgery is associated with an increased prevalence of postoperative diabetes with consequent relevant issues with self-care management. Surgery should be considered only in selected patients after adequate medical treatment.

Chronic Pancreatitis or Pancreatic Tumor? A Problem-solving Approach

Certain inflammatory pancreatic abnormalities may mimic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma at imaging, which precludes accurate preoperative diagnosis and may lead to unnecessary surgery. Inflammatory conditions that may appear masslike include mass-forming chronic pancreatitis, focal autoimmune pancreatitis, and paraduodenal pancreatitis or "groove pancreatitis." In addition, obstructive chronic pancreatitis can mimic an obstructing ampullary mass or main duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm. Secondary imaging features such as the duct-penetrating sign, biliary or main pancreatic duct skip strictures, a capsulelike rim, the pancreatic duct-to-parenchyma ratio, displaced calcifications in patients with chronic calcific pancreatitis, the "double duct" sign, and vessel encasement or displacement can help to suggest the possibility of an inflammatory mass or a neoplastic process. An awareness of the secondary signs that favor a diagnosis of malignant or inflammatory lesions in the pancreas can help the radiologist to perform the differential diagnosis and determine the degree of suspicion for malignancy. Repeat biopsy or surgical resection may be necessary to achieve an accurate diagnosis and prevent unnecessary surgery for inflammatory conditions. Online supplemental material and DICOM image stacks are available for this article. ^©RSNA, 2019.

Groove pancreatitis: a challenging imaging diagnosis

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is an uncommon form of chronic pancreatitis (CP) involving the space between duodenum, pancreatic head and common bile duct (CBD) known as pancreatic-duodenal groove. Although an association with long-standing ethanol assumption is reported a definite etiology of GP is unknown. Since thickening of the duodenal wall, pancreatic head enlargement, CBD stricture and dilatation of pancreatic duct system are common findings the differential diagnosis with pancreatic head neoplasm by means of imaging can be challenging. However, some imaging findings such as fibrotic changes of the pancreatic groove and presence of duodenal wall cysts may suggest the correct diagnosis. In this paper we review clinical and imaging features of GP with emphasis on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings.

Role of total pancreatectomy in the treatment of paraduodenal pancreatitis: A case report

BACKGROUND

Paraduodenal pancreatitis (PP) is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis presenting with symptoms of duodenal obstruction. Conservative treatment is often unsuccessful and pancreaticoduodenectomy is the preferred surgical approach. A mini review of the outcomes of surgical therapy for PP shows that the results of pancreaticoduodenectomy are predominantly favorable.

CASE SUMMARY

In our case report of PP, we describe an unusual course first presenting with the symptoms of chronic pancreatitis and a pseudocyst of the pancreatic tail. A pseudocystojejunostomy was performed and the late postoperative course was complicated with the symptoms of duodenal obstruction. At laparotomy, PP was found and the patient was treated with a total pancreatectomy. The postoperative course was uneventful and good weight gain with resolution of pain was demonstrated at follow up visits.

CONCLUSION

Surgery is currently the optimal treatment option for PP. It is also the best diagnostic tool in distinguishing between pancreatitis and pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Groove Pancreatitis: Endoscopic Treatment via the Minor Papilla and Duct of Santorini Morphology

Background/Aims

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is an uncommon disease involving the pancreaticoduodenal area. Possible pathogenesis includes obstructive pancreatitis in the duct of Santorini and impaired communication with the duct of Wirsung, minor papilla stenosis, and leakage causing inflammation. Limited data regarding endoscopic treatment have been published.

Methods

Seven patients with GP receiving endoscopic treatment were reviewed. The morphology of the pancreatic duct was evaluated by a pancreatogram. Endoscopic dilation of the minor papilla and drainage of the duct of Santorini were performed.

Results

There were two pancreatic divisum cases, one ansa pancreatica case and four impaired connections between the duct of Santorini and the main pancreatic duct. Three to 31 sessions of endoscopy, with 2 to 24 sessions of transpapillary stenting and dilation, were performed. Interventions through the minor papilla were successfully performed in six of seven cases. The pancreatic stenting duration ranged from 2 to 87 months. Five patients with evidence of chronic pancreatitis (CP) tended to receive more endoscopic interventions than did the two patients without CP (2–24 vs 2, respectively) for GP and other complications associated with CP.

Conclusions

Disconnection or impairment of communication between the ducts of Santorini and Wirsung was observed in all cases of GP. No surgery was required, and endoscopic minor papilla dilation and drainage of the duct of Santorini were feasible for the treatment of GP.

Benign Tumors and Tumorlike Lesions of the Pancreas

The pancreas is a complex organ that may give rise to large number of neoplasms and non-neoplastic lesions. This article focuses on benign neoplasms, such as serous neoplasms, and tumorlike (pseudotumoral) lesions that may be mistaken for neoplasm not only by clinicians and radiologists, but also by pathologists. The family of pancreatic pseudotumors, by a loosely defined conception of that term, includes a variety of lesions including heterotopia, hamartoma, and lipomatous pseudohypertrophy. Autoimmune pancreatitis and paraduodenal ("groove") pancreatitis may also lead to pseudotumor formation. Knowledge of these entities will help in making an accurate diagnosis.

Pancreaticoduodenectomy and Outcomes for Groove Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The operative management of groove pancreatitis (GP) is still a matter of controversy and pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) can be a high-risk procedure for patients. The aim of this study was to report our 9-year experience of surgical resection for GP and to review relevant literature.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients undergoing pancreatectomy for GP from August 1, 2008, through May 31, 2017 was performed. Patients with clinical, radiologic, and final pathologic confirmation of GP were included. Literature on the current understanding of GP was reviewed.

RESULTS

Eight patients from total 449 pancreatectomies met inclusion criteria. Four male and 4 female patients (mean age, 51.9 years; mean body mass index, 25.3) underwent pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (3 by laparoscopy and 5 by open approach). Mean (range) operative time and blood loss was 343 (167-525) min and 218 (40-500) mL respectively. Pancreatic fistula and delayed gastric emptying were noted in one patient each. No major complications occurred, but minor complications occurred in 5 (62%) patients. Mean hospital stay was 6.1 (range 3-14) days. At median follow-up of 18.15 (interquartile range 7.25-33.8) months, all patients experienced a resolution of pancreatitis and improvement in symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

PD is a safe procedure for GP. Short-term surgical outcomes are acceptable and long-term outcomes are associated with improved symptom control.

Paraduodenal pancreatitis as a mimicker of pancreatic adenocarcinoma: MRI evaluation

PURPOSE

To evaluate the MRI features of paraduodenal pancreatitis (PDP) and to define useful signs to differentiate PDP from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We reviewed the MRI scans of 56 patients, 28 affected by PDP and 28 by PDAC, all pathologically proven. The following parameters were evaluated: signal intensity of the lesion on T1-, T2-WI, DWI (b800) and after contrast medium administration; presence of cysts; dilation of common hepatic duct and main pancreatic duct; focal thickening of the second portion of the duodenum; maximum diameter and volume of the lesion.

RESULTS

Both PDPs and PDACs were more frequently hypointense on T1-WI, iso-hyperintense on T2-WI, hypointense in the pancreatic phase and iso-hypointense in the venous phase (p>0.05); in the delayed phase most PDP were hyperintense (p=0.0031); on DWI 71.4% PDPs were isointense and all PDACs were hyperintense (p=0.0041). Cystic components were present in 85.7% PDPs (p=0.0011); double duct sign was present in 50% PDACs (p=0.0048); focal thickening of the duodenum was depicted in 89.3 PDPs (p=0.0012). PDPs were larger than PDACs (p=0.0003).

CONCLUSION

The most suggestive signs of PDP are: signal hyperintensity in the delayed phase, isointensity on DWI, presence of cysts, focal thickening of the duodenum and large size of the lesion.

Outcomes After Conservative, Endoscopic, and Surgical Treatment of Groove Pancreatitis: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a focal form of chronic pancreatitis affecting the paraduodenal groove area, for which consensus on diagnosis and management is lacking.

GOALS

We performed a systematic review of the literature to determine patient characteristics and imaging features of GP and to evaluate clinical outcomes after treatment.

RESULTS

Eight studies were included reporting on 335 GP patients with a median age of 47 years (range, 34 to 64 y), with 90% male, 87% smokers, and 87% alcohol consumption, and 47 months (range, 15 to 122 mo) of follow-up. Most patients presented with abdominal pain (91%) and/or weight loss (78%). Imaging frequently showed cystic lesions (91%) and duodenal stenosis (60%).Final treatment was conservative (eg, pain medication) in 29% of patients. Endoscopic treatment (eg, pseudocyst drainage) was applied in 19% of patients-34% of these patients were subsequently referred for surgery. Overall, 59% of patients were treated surgically (eg, pancreatoduodenectomy). Complete symptom relief was observed in 50% of patients who were treated conservatively, 57% who underwent endoscopic treatment, and 79% who underwent surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

GP is associated with male gender, smoking, and alcohol consumption. The vast majority of patients presents with abdominal pain and with cystic lesions on imaging. Although surgical treatment seems to be the most effective, both conservative and endoscopic treatment are successful in about half of patients. A stepwise treatment algorithm starting with the least invasive treatment options seems advisable.

Paraduodenal Pancreatitis: Three Cases with Different Therapeutic Approaches

BACKGROUND

Paraduodenal pancreatitis is a rare cause of chronic abdominal pain characterized by an inflammatory process and scarring in the groove area between the pancreatic head and the duodenal wall. Besides abdominal pain, symptoms such as vomiting and weight loss are common. Currently, advances in radiological and endoscopic diagnostic methods allow it to be identified without histological confirmation, although the differentiation from pancreatic adenocarcinoma could be challenging in some cases. Many therapeutic options are available nowadays including pharmacological, endoscopic, or surgical treatment.

METHODS

We report 3 cases of paraduodenal pancreatitis that had different therapeutic approaches.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

They show that this pathology should be taken into account in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic masses with duodenal infiltration, and that its management should be individualized and judicious.

Paraduodenal pancreatitis as an uncommon cause of gastric outlet obstruction: A case report and review of the literature

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Paraduodenal pancreatitis is a rare form of focal chronic or recurrent pancreatitis that can present as gastric outlet obstruction.

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Endoscopic ultrasound and fine needle aspiration biopsy provides the best diagnostic modality.

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Key histopathologic features include Brunner gland hyperplasia, myofibroblastic proliferation, spindle cells and foamy cells.

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Cross-sectional imaging demonstrates a fibrotic, sheet-like mass with cystic change between the duodenal wall and pancreatic head.

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The optimal treatment for refractory symptoms is pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Introduction

Paraduodenal pancreatitis (PP) is an under-recognized form of focal chronic or recurrent pancreatitis. Since PP presents with non-specific symptoms and shares radiological and histopathological features with other entities, it can be challenging to diagnose.

Presentation of case report

Herein, a case of a 64 year-old Caucasian male with PP presenting with recurrent gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) is detailed. Over the course of two years, he underwent multiple balloon dilatations for symptom management. His diagnostic course was complicated by inconclusive and misleading biopsies.

Conclusion

PP can rarely present as GOO in otherwise asymptomatic patients. A preoperative pathologic diagnosis can be difficult to obtain, and in this case delayed definitive surgical management. The case is discussed in detail, and a concise review the current literature was undertaken.

Groove resection of pancreatic head in groove pancreatitis: A case report

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare type of chronic pancreatitis, which primarily affects the groove area of the pancreatic head. Surgery is considered as the ultimate method for GP if the symptoms are not improved by conservative or endoscopic treatments, and the Whipple technique is the common choice at present. The present study introduces a novel surgical procedure for GP, namely groove resection of pancreatic head (GRPH), in a 56-year-old male patient. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on GRPH for the surgical treatment of GP. This patient was diagnosed with typical GP without any evidence of malignancy, based on imaging studies and gastrointestinal endoscopy, and was treated with GRPH. Briefly, only the groove area of the pancreatic head was resected, while the duodenum, the main pancreatic duct and the majority of the pancreatic head were preserved. A complete relief of abdominal pain and a weight gain were achieved 2 months after surgery. Endoscopic examination indicated marked improvement of the duodenal lesions. In conclusion, GRPH is a less invasive surgical procedure for GP compared with other surgical procedures and may be an alternative for the surgical treatment of GP without severe lesions or stenosis of the duodenum.

Groove Pancreatitis: Report of Three Cases with Brief Review of Literature

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare type of segmental pancreatitis, and it remains largely an unfamiliar entity to most physicians. It is often misdiagnosed as pancreatic cancer and autoimmune pancreatitis. With better understanding of radiological findings, preoperative differentiation is often possible. If there is preoperative diagnosis of GP, one can employ non-surgical treatment. But most of the patients ultimately require surgery. Pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is the surgical treatment of choice. We report three cases of GP that were treated by Whipple's operation at our unit. All the three patients had a history of long-standing alcohol intake. In the first and third patients, we had a preoperative diagnosis of GP. But, in the second patient, our pre-operative and intra-operative diagnosis was a pancreatic head malignancy. Diagnosis of GP was made only after histopathological examination. All the three patients had uneventful postoperative recovery and were well at 55-, 45- and 24-month follow-up respectively. In addition to detail descriptions of our three cases, a detailed review of the current literature surrounding this clinical entity is also provided in this article.

Clinical and Morphological Features of Paraduodenal Pancreatitis: An Italian Experience With 120 Patients

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiological features and clinical outcomes of paraduodenal pancreatitis (PP).

METHODS

A final diagnosis of PP was based on surgical specimens in resected patients and on imaging in nonoperated patients. Clinical, radiological, and pathological data were collected and reevaluated.

RESULTS

We studied 120 patients, 97.5% of whom were drinkers and 97.5% were smokers. Symptoms at clinical onset were acute pancreatitis in 78 patients (65%) and continuous pain in 68 patients (55.8%). Other symptoms were vomiting (36.7%), weight loss (25.8%), and jaundice (11.7%). Cystic variant was diagnosed in 82 patients (68.0%), and solid variant was diagnosed in 38 patients (32.0%). Pure and diffuse forms were observed in 22 (18.3%) and 98 (81.7%) patients, respectively. Pancreatic calcifications were present at clinical onset in 5.0% of the patients and in 61.0% at the end of follow-up. Somatostatin analogs were used in 13 patients (10.8%), and 81 patients (67.0%) underwent surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical profile of PP was found to be middle-aged men who were heavy drinkers and smokers with painful pancreatitis and was associated with vomiting and weight loss. In nonresponders, alcohol withdrawal and medical therapy can be proposed as a first-line treatment, and surgery as a second-line treatment.

Heterotopic pancreatic rests: imaging features, complications, and unifying concepts

OBJECTIVE

The spectrum of pancreatic heterotopia will be reviewed, including clinical features, potential complications, and imaging manifestations. This will also include a review of various entities associated with pancreatic heterotopia such as groove pancreatitis and cystic dystrophy of gastroduodenal heterotopic pancreas. These entities were previously thought of as distinct histopathologic entities but now appear to represent manifestations of pancreatic heterotopia.

CONCLUSION

Pancreatic heterotopia and heterotopic pancreatitis can have a wide range of appearances. Several entities, which were previously thought to be distinct, can be considered manifestations of pancreatic heterotopia and heterotopic pancreatitis.

Clinical outcomes and prevalence of cancer in patients with possible groove pancreatitis

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Data on non-surgical treatment of groove pancreatitis (GP) and the risk of cancer are lacking. We aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of cancer in patients in whom the diagnosis GP was considered, and to evaluate symptom improvement after treatment.

STUDY

Patients referred with possible GP (2001-2014) were retrospectively included. An experienced radiologist reassessed imaging. GP patients received questionnaires evaluating their symptoms.

RESULTS

From the 38 possible GP patients, 10 had cancer (26%) and 28 GP (74%). Compared with cancer patients, GP patients more frequently had cysts (2/10 vs. 18/28, P = 0.03), less often jaundice (6/10 vs 3/27, P < 0.01), an abrupt caliber change of the CBD (5/10 vs. 2/28, P < 0.01) or suspicious cytology (5/9 vs 2/20, P = 0.02). Of the 28 GP patients, 14 patients were treated conservatively of whom 12 reported symptom improvement after a median follow-up of 45 months (range 7-127 months). All 6 patients treated endoscopically and 7/8 patients treated surgically reported symptom improvement. Surgery, performed because of treatment failure (3/8) or inability to exclude malignancy (5/8), caused mortality in 1/8 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Suspicion of pancreatic cancer should be high in patients presenting with possible GP. Conservative, endoscopic and surgical treatment can all lead to symptom improvement, suggesting a 'step-up approach' to GP once cancer is excluded.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is a debilitating condition often associated with severe abdominal pain and exocrine and endocrine dysfunction. The underlying cause is multifactorial and involves complex interaction of environmental, genetic, and/or other risk factors. The pathology is dependent on the underlying pathogenesis of the disease. This review describes the clinical, gross, and microscopic findings of the main subtypes of chronic pancreatitis: alcoholic chronic pancreatitis, obstructive chronic pancreatitis, paraduodenal ("groove") pancreatitis, pancreatic divisum, autoimmune pancreatitis, and genetic factors associated with chronic pancreatitis. As pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may be confused with chronic pancreatitis, the main distinguishing features between these 2 diseases are discussed.

[Diagnosis and treatment of duodenal dystrophy in patients with chronic pancreatitis]

AIM

to define optimal treatment of duodenal dystrophy in patients with chronic pancreatitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

515 patients with chronic pancreatitis have been treated for the period 2004-2015 in A.V.Vishnevsky Institute of Surgery. Duodenal dystrophy (DD) was diagnosed in 79 (15.3%) of them. The diagnosis was confirmed by sonography, CT, MRI and endosonography. 5 patients are under observation without surgery. 74 patients were operated after previous medical therapy during 39 months on the average. Pancreatoduodenectomy was performed in 36 patients. Organ-sparing interventions were applied in 34 cases including different duodenal resections in 20 patients and pancreatic head resections in different modifications in 14 cases. 4 patients underwent palliative surgery. Chronic pancreatitis and DD were verified by morphological analysis of specimens. Long-term results were estimated in 47 patients. Median follow-up was 49.9 months.

RESULTS

X-ray diagnostics showed that DD was combined with chronic pancreatitis in 87.3% of cases while morphological analysis revealed 93.8%. Clinical signs of DD were caused by striated pancreatitis in 69.6% and ectopic pancreatic tissue in 30.4%. Clinical manifestations of DD did not depend on its cause and were presented by symptoms of chronic pancreatitis. Postoperative complications occurred in 25 (34.7%) patients. There were 33.5% of complications after pancreatoduodenectomy and 70% after duodenal resection. 1 patient died. Overall mortality was 1,3%. In long-term period complete regression of symptoms was observed in 66% of cases, significant improvement - in 32%, absence of the effect - in 2%.

CONCLUSION

Medical therapy should be preferred for patients with DD and chronic pancreatitis. Surgery is indicated in case of persistent pain, complicated course of chronic pancreatitis and duodenal obstruction. Pancreatoduodenectomy and pancreatic head resection are preferred.

Cystic Dystrophy of the Duodenum Due to Heterotopic Pancreas - A Case Report and Review of Literature

Cystic Dystrophy and Heterotopic Pancreas (CDHP) is a rare cause of chronic pancreatitis, duodenal obstruction and obstructive jaundice. The diagnosis is often delayed and requires multimodal imaging with Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Cholangio-Pancreatography (MRCP) and Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS). The treatment is not standardized but Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) provides long-term relief in some cases. The present case is about a 47-year-old male with history of alcohol abuse for 10 years who presented with a history of recurrent acute pancreatitis. CT scan revealed bulky head of pancreas with a hypodense area between pancreatic head and second part of duodenum, prominent pancreatic duct, Dilated Common Bile Duct (CBD) (15mm) and stenosis of second part of duodenum. EUS confirmed CT findings. A Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) showed only inflammatory infiltrate. A diagnosis of groove pancreatitis was made. The patient was subjected to a pylorus preserving PD. Histopathological examination showed cystic dystrophy of duodenum due to heterotopic pancreas. The patient is doing well at 5 years of follow-up.

Groove pancreatitis-a great mimicker

Groove pancreatitis is an uncommon form of chronic pancreatitis affecting the "groove" between the pancreatic head, duodenum and common bile duct. Many radiologists remain unfamiliar with this entity, with only a few descriptions of it existing in the radiology and pathology literature. The exact underlying cause of groove pancreatitis is unclear, although there are strong associations with peptic ulcer disease, smoking, long-term alcohol abuse, functional obstruction of the duct of Santorini and Brunner gland hyperplasia. This entity mimics pancreatic carcinoma and often ultimately leads to surgery. Hence it is important for radiologists to be familiar with imaging findings of groove pancreatitis to avoid diagnostic dilemma. Imaging findings in our case showed a soft tissue mass in the pancreaticoduodenal groove with enhancement, consistent with scar tissue and cystic changes within the lesion. It was associated with adjacent duodenal wall thickening with smooth and regular tapering of the pancreatic and common bile ducts.

Groove pancreatitis vs. pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A review of 8 cases

INTRODUCTION

Groove pancreatitis (PS) is an uncommon clinical situation and radiologically it can mimic carcinoma of the periampullary area. The aim of this paper is to study a series of 8 patients who underwent surgery with preoperative diagnosis of pancreatic head mass and subsequent pathological diagnosis of PS.

METHODS

In our series, 6 were men and 2 women, with an average age of 51,9 years. Before surgery, all patients had epigastric abdominal pain requiring analgesia at high doses. The preoperative analytical CEA and Ca 19.9 were normal in all patients. Imaging studies showed intrapancreatic solid lesions in 6 of the 8 patients, and in the remaining 2 one papillary mass of 5 and 6cm, respectively, that caused stenosis in the duodenal luz. EUS neoplastic cells were negative in all patients.

RESULTS

The immediate postoperative evolution was satisfactory, there are no complications. In our series, no patients have died. The long-term follow-up, in 7 of the 8 patients, has been excellent with disappearance of abdominal pain and improvement of nutritional status. The remaining patient had frequent recurrent episodes of acute pancreatitis, and at 60 months, presented a pseudocyst that has required a Roux-en-Y cystojejunostomy.

CONCLUSIONS

PS must be included in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic lesions, which may include carcinoma of the periampullary area and other causes of chronic pancreatitis.

Groove Pancreatitis: A Rare form of Chronic Pancreatitis

Context:

Groove pancreatitis is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis affecting the “groove” of the pancreas among the pancreatic head, duodenum, and common bile duct. The exact cause is unknown, although there are associations with long-term alcohol abuse, smoking, peptic ulcer disease, heterotopic pancreas, gastric resection, biliary disease, and anatomical or functional obstruction of the minor papilla. The diagnosis can be challenging. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography are the preferred imaging modalities. The treatment of choice is conservative although surgical intervention can sometimes be required.

Case Report:

A 57-year-old male with a history of human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B presented with 4 days of epigastric pain. Abdominal exam revealed absent bowel sounds and epigastric tenderness. He had a creatinine of 1.72 mg/dL, potassium of 2.9 mmol/L, and a normal lipase level of 86 U/L. Liver enzymes and total bilirubin were normal. Computed tomography abdomen showed high-grade obstruction of the second portion of the duodenum without any obvious mass. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed a mass at the duodenal bulb causing luminal narrowing, with biopsies negative for malignancy. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a mass in the region of the pancreatic head and descending duodenum. EUS revealed a 3 cm mass in the region of pancreatic head with irregular borders and no vascular invasion. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) was nondiagnostic. The patient then underwent a Whipple's procedure. Pathology of these specimens was negative for malignancy but was consistent with para-duodenal or groove pancreatitis.

Conclusion:

The low incidence of groove pancreatitis is partly due to lack of familiarity with the disease. Groove pancreatitis should be considered in the differential for patients presenting with pancreatic head lesions and no cholestatic jaundice, especially when a duodenal obstruction is present, and neither duodenal biopsies nor pancreatic head FNA confirm adenocarcinoma.

Clinicoradiological appraisal of 'paraduodenal pancreatitis': Pancreatitis outside the pancreas!

Purpose:

Paraduodenal pancreatitis (PP) is a unique form of focal chronic pancreatitis that selectively involves the duodenum and aberrant pancreatic tissue located near the minor papilla (beyond the pancreas proper). The pseudotumoral nature of the disease often generates considerable clinical quandary and patient apprehension, and therefore merits a better understanding. The present study appraises the clinicoradiological manifestations of PP in 33 patients.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical, laboratory, and radiological manifestations of 33 patients of PP treated in gastroenterology/hepatology and hepato-pancreatico-biliary surgery units during June 2010-August 2014 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results:

All patients were young to middle-aged men (100%) with history of alcohol abuse (93.9%) and/or smoking (42.4%), who presented either with acute or gradually worsening abdominal pain (90.9%). Pancreatic enzymes and serum tumor markers remained normal or were mildly/transiently elevated. Cystic variant was detected in 57.6% (solid in 42.4%); the disease remained confined to the groove/duodenum (pure form) in 45.4%. Medial duodenal wall thickening with increased enhancement was seen in 87.87 and 81.81%, respectively, and duodenal/paraduodenal cysts were seen in 78.78%. Pancreatic calcifications and biliary stricture were seen 27.3% patients. Peripancreatic arteries were neither infiltrated nor encased.

Conclusion:

PP has a discrete predilection for middle-aged men with history of longstanding alcohol abuse and/or smoking. Distinguishing imaging findings include thickening of the pancreatic side of duodenum exhibiting increased enhancement with intramural/paraduodenal cysts. This may be accompanied by plate-like scar tissue in the groove region, which may simulate groove pancreatic carcinoma. However, as opposed to carcinoma, the peripancreatic arteries are neither infiltrated nor encased, rather are medially displaced.

Groove Pancreatitis, a Masquerading Yet Distinct Clinicopathological Entity: Analysis of Risk Factors and Differentiation

OBJECTIVES

Our objective was to delineate predictive factors differentiating groove pancreatitis (GP) from other lesions involving the head of the pancreas (HOP).

METHODS

A case-control study of patients older than 10 years was performed comparing patients with GP to those with other surgically resected HOP lesions.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients with GP (mean ± SD age, 51.9 ± 10.5 years; 11 males [84.6%]), all with a history of smoking (mean, 37.54 ± 17.8 pack-years), were identified. Twelve patients (92.3%) had a history of heavy alcohol drinking (heavy alcohol [EtOH]). The mean lesion size was 2.6 ± 1.1 cm, and the CA 19-9 was elevated (>37 IU/mL) in 5 patients (45.5%). The most common histopathologic condition was duodenal wall cyst with myofibroblastic proliferation and changes of chronic pancreatitis in the HOP.Univariate analysis revealed decreasing age, male sex, weight loss, nausea/vomiting, heavy EtOH, smoking, and a history of chronic pancreatitis were predictive of GP. A multivariate analysis among smokers demonstrated that weight loss (P = 0.006; odds ratio, 11.96; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-70.2), and heavy EtOH (P < 0.001; odds ratio, 82.2; 95% confidence interval, 9.16-738.1) were most predictive of GP. Compared to pancreatic adenocarcinoma (n = 183), weight loss and heavy EtOH remained predictive of GP.

CONCLUSION

Groove pancreatitis in the HOP is associated with a history of heavy EtOH and weight loss. In the absence of these symptoms, it is essential to rule out a malignant lesion.