A rare case of sarcomatoid carcinoma of the pancreas

Abstract

Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the pancreas is a rare malignancy characterised by a predominant sarcomatoid component associated with a well-differentiated adenocarcinomatous component. We report the case of an 84-year-old patient with a history of cardiac arrhythmia who was admitted to hospital with jaundice of one month's duration. Ultrasound and abdominal computed tomography revealed a solid and locally advanced pancreatic head mass. The patient underwent endoscopic ultrasound with biopsy of the mass and placement of a biliary stent. Pathological examination of the biopsy revealed a sarcomatoid carcinoma of the pancreas. In view of the patient's bedridden condition and comorbidities, it was decided at a multidisciplinary consultation meeting to withhold treatment. The patient died 1 month later.