Xanthogranulomatous pancreatitis treated by duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection

BACKGROUND:Xanthogranulomatosis is an idiopathic,rare process in which lipid-laden histiocytes are deposited at various locations in the body.We present two cases who were treated by duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection and eventually diagnosed as having xanthogranulomatous pancreatitis. METHODS:A 30-year-old caucasian man was admitted to our clinic for vague abdominal pain and epigastric dullness. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic retrograde pancreatography suggested the existence of chronic pancreatitis.Another 34-year-old caucasian woman was admitted to our clinic because of right upper quadrant pain. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography demonstrated a dilatation and stone of the main pancreatic duct.Based on a diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis,pancreatic head resection was planned and a laparotomy was performed in both of cases. RESULTS:In both cases,duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection was performed.Macroscopic and microscopic findings revealed xanthogranulomatous inflammation,which led to a diagnosis of xanthogranulomatous pancreatitis. CONCLUSION:Although this type of pancreatitis is extremely rare,it is important to keep it in mind for a differential diagnosis because it may simulate chronic pancreatitis or a malignant tumor on imaging.