Gastric duplication cyst of a bifid pancreas: cause of recurrent vomiting

BMJ Case Rep. 2023 Jun 22;16(6):e254019. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2022-254019.

Abstract

An infant girl first presented with recurrent episodes of non-bilious vomiting, having had five hospitalisations over the following months because of dehydration. Laboratory data showed no inflammatory response, normal pancreatic amylase, but increased lipase levels (between 67 and 425 U/L). Several abdominal ultrasound studies suggested an intestinal duplication cyst on left hypochondrium and, later, a dilated and irregular pancreatic duct. CT showed a bifid tailed pancreas and a change in the cyst's characteristics. A communication with the pancreatic duct was hypothesised, which was confirmed on MR cholangiopancreatography. On laparoscopic surgery, the cyst was confirmed to be at the end of the caudal side of the pancreatic bifid tail, having no communication with the stomach. Cystectomy with partial pancreatectomy was performed with pathological findings confirming a gastric duplication cyst originating from the pancreatic bifid tail. At latest follow-up, 4 months after surgery, she remains asymptomatic.

Keywords: Congenital disorders; Gastroenterology; Paediatrics; Pancreas and biliary tract.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cysts* / surgery
  • Digestive System Abnormalities* / complications
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Pancreas / diagnostic imaging
  • Pancreas / surgery
  • Pancreatectomy / adverse effects
  • Pancreatic Ducts
  • Vomiting / etiology
  • Vomiting / surgery