Pancreatic tumors complicating pregnancy: A concern for fetomaternal well being

Abstract

Introduction: Hemoperitoneum resulting from the rupture of pancreatic tumors is a rare condition, especially during pregnancy. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 21-year-old gravida 2, para 1, at 25+5 weeks of gestation, who presented to the hospital with severe epigastric pain and decreased fetal movement. Ultrasonography showed intrauterine fetal death, a retroperitoneal mass in the epigastric region, and hemoperitoneum. Computed tomography scan revealed a heterogeneously enhancing pancreatic mass suggestive of pancreatic neo-plasm. However, the late diagnosis and the delay in treatment resulted in a deterioration of maternal status with eventual mortality. Conclusion: Diagnostic difficulties occur because of the rarity of the condition and vague clinical presentations. In case of a pregnancy complicated by hemoperitoneum, prompt effort to stop the intraperitoneal bleeding is imperative.