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  • Title: Autoimmune pancreatitis.
    Author: Toomey DP, Swan N, Torreggiani W, Conlon KC.
    Journal: Br J Surg; 2007 Sep; 94(9):1067-74. PubMed ID: 17701958.
    Abstract:
    BACKGROUND: Approximately 2 per cent of pancreatic masses resected for suspected malignancy are found instead to be a form of chronic pancreatitis defined by a characteristic lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate. This condition is now commonly classified as 'autoimmune pancreatitis'. METHODS: A literature review of autoimmune pancreatitis was performed using Medline and PubMed. The reference lists of identified articles were searched for further relevant publications. RESULTS: Patients are predominantly 55-65 years old and present with obstructive jaundice, abdominal pain and weight loss. Imaging may show a mass of malignant appearance or pancreatobiliary tree strictures precipitating surgical exploration. Raised serum levels of IgG4 and specific autoantibodies, when combined with particular radiological features and a biopsy negative for malignancy, enable a preoperative diagnosis and successful treatment with steroids. CONCLUSION: Autoimmune pancreatitis is not uncommon and steroid treatment can effect a dramatic improvement. Care is needed to ensure that pancreatic cancer is not misdiagnosed.
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