Pancreatic Lymphoepithelial Cyst: Report of a Case

Abstract

Lymphoepithelial cyst of the pancreas is a rare cystic benign tumor characterized by the presence of a keratinizing, mature stratified squamous epithelium surrounded by dense lymphoid tissue on histologic examination. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case reported in Taiwan. Review of the literature revealed fewer than 40 previously reported cases in the English literature. We present a case of a 65-year-old female with vague abdominal pain. A 6.5×3 cm pancreatic head tumor was detected by abdominal ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study. This patient received laparotomy with total excision of the tumor. The patient has been well and followed-up for two years without recurrence. The clinical behavior; pathogenesis, radiological and pathological features, as well as treatment are discussed. In addition, the differential diagnosis of cystic lesions of the pancreas is also discussed.