Pancreaticopleural fistula formation: a rare complication in chronic pancreatitis
Feist, H.
Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift 97(24): 905-909
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0043-5325 PMID: 4090520 Document Number: 245125
Pleural effusions are found in 3 to 17% of patients with chronic pancreatitis. The most likely underlying pathogenetic mechanism is transdiaphragmatic lymphatic transfer of pancreatic secretions to the subpleural space, whilst a rare cause is the formation of pancreatico-pleural fistulae. The measurement of amylase activity in the pleural fluid has considerable diagnostic value and in most cases the diagnosis is verified by endoscopic retrograde pancreaticography (ERP). A case report is presented and forms the basis for a discussion of pathogenesis, diagnostic problems and therapeutic management of pleural effusions in chronic pancreatitis.