Distal Pancreatectomy for Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor of the Pancreas: A Case Report

Abstract

Solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) of the pancreas is a rare tumor, sometimes asymptomatic, mainly affecting young females. It has a low malignant potential, and its complete surgical resection with free margins is the treatment of choice, offering an excellent prognosis. We present the case of a 43-year-old healthy female who was referred to the surgery department for a large abdominal mass found in the abdominal ultrasound. In the course of the study of this mass, an abdominal CT with fine needle aspiration (FNA) was performed, revealing a solid pseudopapillary tumor of the tail of the pancreas. A laparotomic distal pancreatectomy with total splenectomy was performed. A grade B pancreatic fistula occurred on the third postoperative day, and she was released on postoperative day 11. Histopathology study revealed a 10 cm solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas, with cavities filled with hematic content and limited by a partially calcified capsule. SPT is a rare and indolent tumor. Prognosis is highly favorable after an adequate surgical resection, hence the importance of a precise preoperative diagnosis. Therefore, it is important to choose the most appropriate surgical strategy for each patient.