Korean J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr.  2005 Mar;8(1):81-86.

A Case of Chronic Pancreatitis with Massive Pleural Effusion

• Lee EY
• Kang YH
• Kim JY
• Kim SW

Abstract

Massive pancreatic pleural effusion is a rare complication of chronic pancreatitis. It results from leakage of pancreatic secretion into the pleural space through the aortic or esophageal hiatus, either by a pancreatic duct disruption or communicating pseudocyst. The presentation of the pancreatic pleural effusion is often misleading as respiratory rather than abdominal symptoms because of predominance of pulmonary complaints. Markedly elevated amylase level of the pleural fluid is highly suggestive of the diagnosis. We experienced a case of chronic pancreatitis with massive pleural effusion in a 9-year-old female, who presented with a 6-months history of intermittent abdominal pain, and cough and chest pain for 3 days.

Keyword

Pancreatic pleural effusion; Chronic pancreatitis; Child

MeSH Terms

Abdominal Pain
Amylases
Chest Pain
Child
Cough
Diagnosis
Female
Humans
Pancreatic Ducts
Pancreatitis, Chronic*
Pleural Effusion*
Amylases