Rupture of a pancreatic pseudocyst to the peritoneal cavity: case report

Abstract

Objective: To describe the evolution and outcome of a case of spontaneous pancreatic pseudocyst rupture into the peritoneal cavity. Case detailing: A 44-year-old male patient, chronic alcoholic, smoker, was admitted to the emergency room complaining of severe abdominal pain associated with vomiting and presenting peritonitis on physical examination. Image exams suggested rupture of a pancreatic pseudocyst. He went trhough exploratory laparotomy with pseudocyst-gastric bypass and evolved favorably being discharged completely recovered. Final considerations: Although common, pancreatitis can lead to serious complications. There is a report of up to 5% spontaneous rupture of pancreatic pseudocysts and its evolution varies according to the erosion site of the collection. The rupture into the peritoneal cavity can lead to severe peritonitis and need for urgent surgical approach.