Autoimmune pancreatitis diagnosis based on immunoglobulin G4 levels: Case report

Abstract

Introduction: Autoimmune pancreatitis is a rare form of chronic pancreatitis, with an estimated prevalence of 1 case per 100 000 inhabitants in the general population. It is characterized by the presence of painless obstructive jaundice and imaging findings of a diffusely enlarged pancreas and loss of its lobularity. Depending on its features, it can be classified as subtype 1 or 2, and its diagnosis is reached based on imaging, serological, and histological findings, as well as the patient’s response to corticosteroid therapy, which in turn is the indicated treatment for this disease. Case presentation: A 62-year-old man was admitted to the emergency department of a quaternary care hospital in Bogotá D.C. due to generalized jaundice associated with choluria and acholia. Upon admission, the patient was assessed by the general surgery and gastroenterology services and diagnosed with autoimmune pancreatitis based on immunoglobulin G4 levels and imaging and laboratory findings compatible with this disease. He was successfully treated with corticosteroids, obtaining satisfactory clinical outcomes and a complete resolution of symptoms. Conclusions: Autoimmune pancreatitis is a disease that should be suspected in patients with symptoms of painless obstructive jaundice, thus avoiding misdiagnoses and providing timely treatment that allows the resolution of symptoms and proper management of the disease.

Keywords

• Autoimmune Pancreatitis
• Diagnosis
• Immunoglobulins