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Definition Return to top
A pancreatic abscess is cavity of pus within the pancreas.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Pancreatic abscess occurs in up to 5% of people with acute pancreatitis. An abscess may be caused by inadequate drainage of a pancreatic pseudocyst, which is a complication of pancreatitis.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Physical examination may show signs of pancreatic inflammation, such as fever, abdominal tenderness, and the presence of a mass in the area.
Tests performed may include the following:
Treatment Return to top
Percutaneous (through the skin) drainage of the abscess may be possible. Laparotomy with drainage and possible surgical removal of dead tissue may be required.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
The outcome is related to the severity of the infection. The death rate from undrained pancreatic abscesses is very high.
Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if persistent abdominal pain with fever or other signs of pancreatic abscess develops, particularly if you have recently had a pancreatic pseudocyst or pancreatitis.
Prevention Return to top
Adequate drainage of a pancreatic pseudocyst may help prevent some cases of pancreatic abscess. However, in many cases the disorder is not preventable.
Update Date: 12/29/2002 Updated by: Hebe Molmenti, M.D., Ph.D., Private Practice specializing in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |