Identification of Ectopic Pancreas in the Ileum by Capsule Endoscopy

Abstract

Ectopic pancreas, an uncommon submucosal tumor in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, is histologically similar to normal pancreatic tissue. We present a case of ectopic pancreas in the ileum. A 35-year-old man had intermittent dark bloody stool for 2 months accompanied by epigastric pain and postprandial abdominal fullness. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy did not reveal any abnormalities. Capsule endoscopy revealed a small red polyp in the ileum. Abdominal computed tomography scan and small bowel barium follow-through study were not of any help. GI bleeding and abdominal discomfort were resolved after the lesion was surgically removed. Pathologic examination demonstrated pancreatic acinar cells and a secretory duct in the ileal submucosa, consistent with ectopic pancreas. Ectopic pancreas in the small intestine may be a rare cause of obscure GI bleeding. Capsule endoscopy seems to be a good, noninvasive tool for identification in the small bowel, particularly when other imaging modalities fail to detect any abnormalities. [J Formos Med Assoc 2007;106(3):240-243]

Keywords

• capsule endoscopy
• ectopic pancreas
• gastrointestinal hemorrhage
• small intestine