Acute pancreatitis as an atypical presentation of Henoch-Schonlein purpura and cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a rare clinical entity in childhood. Two children, aged 10 and 14 years, were hospitalized for acute abdominal pain. Clinical and laboratory findings were compatible with AP. Both patients were given supportive medications. Two days after admission, the first patient had purpuric lesions on both buttocks and lower extremities, and occult bleeding. The clinical picture was consistent with Henoch-Schonlein purpura, with pancreatitis and gastrointestinal involvement. The patient's clinical condition improved rapidly after administration of prednisolone. The second patient had digital clubbing on physical examination, and positive sweat chloride test results led to the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. AP in association with Henoch-Schonlein purpura and the initial manifestations of cystic fibrosis is very rare, and the presentation of these conditions is discussed. © TÜBİTAK.