Lemmel syndrome: an unusual cause of biliary obstruction secondary to a duodenal juxta-ampullary diverticulum: a report of two cases

Abstract

Lemmel's syndrome is a rare cause of obstructive jaundice caused by a periampullary duodenal diverticulum compressing the intrapancreatic common bile duct with resultant bile duct dilatation, patients with Lemmel's syndrome usually present with abdominal pain or jaundice. Cross-sectional imaging is beneficial in making the diagnosis noninvasively, thus eliminating other pathologies of the peri-ampullary region. Although rare, we recognize the importance of considering this syndrome to be able to make a diagnosis and offer timely treatment. We present 2 cases of Lemmel's syndrome whose diagnosis is retained based on a CT scan and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography.

Keywords

• Lemmel syndrome
• Periampullary duodenal diverticulum
• Bile duct obstruction
• Imaging