Spontaneous rupture of the pancreatic pseudocyst into the duodenum with massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding: case report and literature review

Abstract

Pancreatic pseudocyst is one of the common complications of both acute and chronic pancreatitis. While most pseudocysts resolve spontaneously with conservative treatment, larger pseudocysts are more likely to cause complications, such as, spontaneous rupture into the gastrointestinal tract and are usually associated with life-threatening bleeding, which is life threatening complication. Endoscopic or surgical drainage may be necessary for uncomplicated persistent large cysts. We present a case of 32 year old Indian male, admitted to our department, who was a known case of alcoholic acute pancreatitis treated conservatively and developed massive upper GI bleeding and shock. CT angiography and upper GI endoscopy failed so he was taken to theatre several time due to bleeding, recurrent bleeding and a major bile leak. Unfortunately, he was expired. Current study highlights this serious rare life-threatening complication.