Management of solid-pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas: a comparison with standard pancreatic neoplasms

Solid pseudopapillary tumor of pancreas: A report of two cases and literature review

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas is rarely encountered in clinical practice. It is a tumor with a good prognosis and overall curative rates. It primarily affects young females in their twenties. It has characteristic imaging appearances, but a definite diagnosis requires histopathological examination. The treatment goal of solid pseudopapillary neoplasm is almost always curative and aims for complete resection of the mass. Here, we present 2 cases of this rare neoplasm. The first case was managed by laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy, while the second underwent a Whipple procedure for pancreatic head involvement.

Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasms of the Pancreas Across Races Demonstrate Disparities with Comparably Good Prognosis

BACKGROUND

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPNs) of the pancreas are rare with low-grade malignancy and unclarified clinicopathological features. This study aimed to examine their characteristics and re-evaluate current treatments.

METHODS

Databases from three sources were screened for patients with SPNs. We compared the perioperative variables, clinical data, overall survival (OS), and prognostic factors for recurrence among the three corresponding cohorts.

RESULTS

We identified 286 patients diagnosed with SPNs between 1988 and 2020. Patients were mostly women (81%; median age: 38 years), and peak incidence was observed in women of 20-29 years of age. SPNs had a peak incidence in Asian men at 50-59 years of age (p = 0.002) and a delayed peak incidence in Asian women at 30-39 years of age (p < 0.001). Treatment strategies differed significantly across the institutions and included variations in the number of harvested lymph nodes and rates of vascular resection. Lymph node positivity was the only predictor of postoperative recurrence (odds ratio, 2.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.38-2.99; p = 0.007). Higher rates of lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.02), perineural invasion (p < 0.001), and R1 margin involvement (p < 0.001), as seen in one institution, did not result in poorer long-term survival in terms of the overall (p = 0.43), SPN-specific (p = 0.69), and recurrence-free survivals (p = 0.067).

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast to previous findings that SPNs are prevalent in young women, a racial predilection for middle-aged Asian men and a delayed female peak incidence were noted. Parenchyma-preserving pancreatectomy may be an acceptable treatment. Non-radical surgery may be appropriate in patients with multiple comorbidities.

Solid Pseudopapillary Epithelial Neoplasm of the Pancreas in the Paediatric Population: A Report of Two Cases

A rare pathology, the solid pseudopapillary epithelial neoplasm (SPEN) of the pancreas accounts for approximately 1% of pancreatic neoplasms. Initially called ‘Frantz’s tumour’, it has now been renamed to SPEN by the World Health Organization (WHO). This tumour has a predilection for females and a good prognosis with surgical excision being the treatment of choice.

Palpable abdominal masses in children are of significant clinical importance. Identifying cystic lesions in the pancreas from CT or MRI scans always warrant further investigations. Primary pancreatic neoplasms account for 0.1% of pancreatic tumours in the paediatric population; an extremely rare circumstance constituting a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to surgeons. This article comprises two paediatric cases of SPEN in 14- and 11-year-old females, respectively, and a literature review on current management.

Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor of Pancreas with Sinistral Portal Hypertension: A Rare Presentation

An elderly male presented with complaint of dull aching pain in left upper abdomen of 2 months' duration. He was well built, and on abdominal examination, a large lump was palpable in left lumbar region. His biochemical, hematological parameters and tumor markers including CA 19.9 were within prescribed normal limits. Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen revealed large, well-defined, mixed solid, and cystic lesion arising from distal body-tail of the pancreas extending up to splenic hilum. Chronic thrombosis involving retro pancreatic splenic vein with multiple perisplenic, peripancreatic, and perigastric collaterals were noted. Based on characteristic CT abdomen findings, a diagnosis of solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) of the pancreas with sinistral portal hypertension (SPH) was made. The patient was planned for open distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy. At surgery, splenic flexure of colon was densely adhered to the tumor, and hence en bloc resection of colon was also performed. Postoperative period was uneventful, and he was discharged from the hospital on postoperative day 6. Histopathology reported solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas, 22 cm in the largest dimension. SPT of the pancreas rarely present with SPH. At 22-cm size, this may be one of the largest SPTs reported in the English literature to date.

Solid pancreatic masses in children: A review of current evidence and clinical challenges

Pancreatic tumors in children are infrequently encountered in clinical practice. Their non-specific clinical presentation and overlapping imaging characteristics often make an accurate preoperative diagnosis difficult. Tumors are categorized as epithelial or non-epithelial, with epithelial tumors further classified as tumors of the exocrine or endocrine pancreas. Although both are tumors of the exocrine pancreas, solid pseudopapillary neoplasm is the most prevalent solid pancreatic tumor in children, while pancreatoblastoma is the most common malignant tumor. Insulinoma is the most common pediatric pancreatic tumor of the endocrine pancreas. Malignant tumors require a complete, often radical, surgical resection. However, pancreatic parenchyma-sparing surgical procedures are utilized for benign tumors and low-grade malignancy to preserve gland function. This review will discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical and diagnostic characteristics, and management options associated with both common and rare solid pancreatic masses in children. We will also discuss current challenges encountered in their evaluation and treatment.

Pancreatic resection in the pediatric, adolescent and young adult population: nationwide analysis on complications

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine pancreatic surgery specific short- and long-term complications of pediatric, adolescent and young adult (PAYA) patients who underwent pancreatic resection, as compared to a comparator cohort of adults.

METHODS

A nationwide retrospective cohort study was performed in PAYA patients who underwent pancreatic resection between 2007 and 2016. PAYA was defined as all patients <40 years at time of surgery. Pancreatic surgery-specific complications were assessed according to international definitions and textbook outcome was determined.

RESULTS

A total of 230 patients were included in the PAYA cohort (112 distal pancreatectomies, 99 pancreatoduodenectomies), and 2526 patients in the comparator cohort. For pancreatoduodenectomy, severe morbidity (29.3% vs. 28.6%; P = 0.881), in-hospital mortality (1% vs. 4%; P = 0.179) and textbook outcome (62% vs. 58%; P = 0.572) were comparable between the PAYA and the comparator cohort. These outcomes were also similar for distal pancreatectomy. After pancreatoduodenectomy, new-onset diabetes mellitus (8% vs. 16%) and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (27% vs. 73%) were lower in the PAYA cohort when compared to adult literature.

CONCLUSION

Pancreatic surgery-specific complications were comparable with patients ≥40 years. Development of endocrine and exocrine insufficiency in PAYA patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy, however, was substantially lower compared to adult literature.

Yield of surgery in solid pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas: A case series and literature review

BACKGROUND

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPN) of the pancreas represents approximately 2% of non-endocrine tumors of the pancreas. It is described in the literature as a rare and predominant tumor in young women.

AIM

To report a case series with SPN and analyzing clinical, surgical, anatomopathological characteristics, as well as the prognosis and review of literature.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients undergoing surgery, with histological diagnosis of SPN between 1998 and 2018, using standardized and prospectively completed forms, performed at the Surgery Service of the Upper Digestive System at Hospital São Rafael/Rede D’Or in Salvador - BA. Review of literature through a database search in MEDLINE/PubMed of retrospective articles.

RESULTS

Fourteen female patients with the average age of 31.6 years (range min-max) were selected. Twelve patients (85.7%) were asymptomatic, being an incidental diagnosis or due to screening for other reasons. One patient had abdominal pain due to gastric compression and another patient had jaundice. The 14 patients were staged with computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. None had evidence of metastasis. In 8 patients (57.1%), the tumor was in the tail and body. The average size was 6.7 cm (range min-18). The type of surgery was according to the anatomical location of the tumor. There was no lymph node involvement. In two cases, vascular resection with the use of a prosthesis was required for reconstruction. The surgical margins were free. In all cases, postoperative immunohistochemistry confirmed that it was a solid pseudo-papillary neoplasia of the pancreas. There has been no disease recurrence in any case so far.

CONCLUSION

The tumors had a benign, indolent and histopathological behavior compatible with the literature. Curative surgery is recommended in all cases.

A Rare Case of Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasm of the Pancreas

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of pancreas (SPN) is a rare entity. It is almost exclusively seen in females within the second and third decades of life with only small minority affecting children. Due to the paucity of the number of cases seen, the natural history of the disease is not fully understood. SPN tumors of the pancreas are usually found incidentally and usually have an excellent prognosis. We herein present a case of a 33-year-old lady diagnosed with SPN, who presented with abdominal fullness, two weeks post cesarean section.

A case of repeat hepatectomy for liver metastasis from solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas: a case report

Background

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas is a rare tumor in young women, metastasizing in only 5–15% of cases, and most commonly to the liver. Although treatment guidelines have not been established, surgical resection is usually performed. We report a rare case of repeat hepatectomy for liver metastases after distal pancreatectomy with solid pseudopapillary neoplasm.

Case presentation

The patient was a 71-year-old woman who underwent distal pancreatectomy for solid pseudopapillary neoplasm, and liver metastasis occurred 4 years after the first surgery. Partial liver resection was performed for four liver metastases, and histopathological examination revealed a diagnosis of liver metastasis from solid pseudopapillary neoplasm. However, 18 months later, liver metastases were detected again; three tumors were identified, and partial resection was performed, which has provided 18 months’ recurrence-free survival.

Conclusions

Long-term prognosis can be expected following R0 resection for resectable liver metastasis from solid pseudopapillary neoplasm.

Atypical solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas in a 14-year-old

Diagnostic approach can be difficult in pediatric pancreatic masses. Our case shows that even though radiologic appearance was not conclusive, surgery remains the main treatment in resectable masses especially in children.

Solid pseudopapillary Tumor of the Pancreas: Radiological and surgical review

Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasms of the pancreas are rare pancreatic tumors with low-grade malignant potential, typically affecting young females. In this review, we discuss the surgical anatomy; the imaging characteristics, and image reporting essentials for proper surgical planning along with the atypical features which should caution the physician regarding the risk of malignancy. We also discuss the common surgical procedures and organ preservation surgeries along with a comprehensive review of the literature.

One size does not fit all for pancreatic cancers: A review on rare histologies and therapeutic approaches

Exocrine pancreatic neoplasms represent up to 95% of pancreatic cancers (PCs) and are widely recognized among the most lethal solid cancers, with a very poor 5-year survival rate of 5%-10%. The remaining < 5% of PCs are neuroendocrine tumors that are usually characterized by a better prognosis, with a median overall survival of 3.6 years. The most common type of PC is pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which accounts for roughly 85% of all exocrine PCs. However up to 10% of exocrine PCs have rare histotypes, which are still poorly understood. These subtypes can be distinguished from PDAC in terms of pathology, imaging, clinical presentation and prognosis. Additionally, due to their rarity, any knowledge regarding these specific histotypes is mostly based on case reports and a small series of retrospective analyses. Therefore, treatment strategies are generally deduced from those used for PDAC, even if these patients are often excluded or not clearly represented in clinical trials for PDAC. For these reasons, it is essential to collect as much information as possible on the management of PC, as assimilating it with PDAC may lead to the potential mistreatment of these patients. Here, we report the most significant literature regarding the epidemiology, typical presentation, possible treatment strategies, and prognosis of the most relevant histotypes among rare PCs.

Sex differences in solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas: A population-based study

Objective

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas is a rare tumor. This study aims to examine the clinicopathological features and surgical treatments of SPN and compare the clinical behavior and prognosis between men and women with SPN.

Methods

We collected the population data of patients with SPN diagnosed between 2004 and 2017 from the SEER database. The Kaplan‐Meier method was used to analyze overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS), and log‐rank tests were used to evaluate the differences between subgroups. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to screen out prognostic risk factors of SPN.

Results

A total of 378 patients with SPN were included, with 246 (65.1%) female patients. 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year overall survival rates were 98.9%, 95.7%, and 93.7%, respectively. Survival analysis revealed that regardless of stage, patients with SPN who underwent surgical interventions still had a significantly better prognosis than those without surgical interventions (P < .001). The patients with lymphatic dissection had a significantly better prognosis than those without lymphatic dissection (P < .001). Moreover, compared with female patients, male patients had significantly poorer OS and DSS (P < .001). Female SPN showed a bimodal age‐frequency distribution with early‐onset incidence at 28 years and late‐onset peak incidence at 62 years, while male SPN presented a unimodal distribution with peak incidence at approximately age 64 years. In female patients, the tumor size in premenopausal females (<65 years old) was significantly larger than that in postmenopausal females (≥65 years old) (P < .001). Clinicopathological characteristic profiles were different not only between male SPN and premenopausal female SPN but also between premenopausal and postmenopausal female SPN.

Conclusion

SPN presents indolent behavior and predominantly occurs in young women. Regardless of stage, surgical intervention is recommended. Moreover, our study is the first large enough study to demonstrate sex‐related discrepancies in SPN. Thus, different treatment strategies should be designed for patients of different sexes at different ages and hormone therapy is a promising approach for SPN.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of predictors of recurrence in patients with Solid Pseudopapillary Tumors of the Pancreas

BACKGROUND

The recurrence rates and predictors of recurrence in patients with Solid Pseudopapillary tumors (SPT) are unclear, which makes it challenging to determine the duration of follow-up. The aim of the current study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the recurrence rates and pathologic factors associated with recurrence in patients with SPT.

METHODS

A PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science search was conducted to identify studies of SPT published during the last 15 years: (09/2002-09/2017). Studies reporting on patients with SPT and follow-up of >5 years were included. The search strategy was conducted per 2009 PRISMA guidelines.

RESULTS

A total of 103 studies reporting on 2599 non-metastatic SPT patients were identified. Sixty-nine patients (2.6%) developed recurrence during follow-up. Pooled estimates from studies with a sample size >20 (N = 33) noted an overall recurrence rate of 2% (95% CI 1-2%). Male gender (OR 1.960), positive lymph nodes (OR 11.9), R1 margins (OR 11.1), and LVI (OR 5.5), were associated with a significantly (all p < 0.05) increased risk of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Current meta-analysis suggests that only 2% of patients with SPT experience recurrence after resection. These data will guide the treating physicians and patients regarding recurrence rates and help identify patients at increased risk of recurrence during follow-up.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Minimally Invasive Pancreatectomies for Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasms of the Pancreas

OBJECTIVES

We report the first systematic review and meta-analysis on minimally invasive pancreatectomy (MIP) for solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPPN) of the pancreas.

METHODS

A systematic review of all studies reporting patient characteristics and outcomes of MIP for SPPN was conducted.

RESULTS

We reviewed 27 studies comprising 149 patients with SPPN managed via MIP. Five were comparative retrospective cohort studies, comprising 46 and 60 patients in the minimally-invasive and open groups, respectively. Tumor size was smaller in the minimally-invasive group (mean difference, -2.20; 95% confidence interval (CI), -3.09 to -1.32; P < 0.001). The MI group had lower intraoperative blood loss (mean difference, -180.19; 95% CI, -344.28 to -16.09; P = 0.03) and transfusion requirement (relative risk, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.06-0.94; P = 0.04), and a shorter time to diet (mean difference, -2.99; 95% CI, -3.96 to -2.03; P < 0.001) and length of stay (mean difference, -3.61; 95% CI, -6.98 to -0.24; P = 0.04). There was no significant difference in operating time, margin positivity, postoperative morbidity, and postoperative pancreatic fistula rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Minimally invasive pancreatectomy for SPPN is associated with decreased intraoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements and a shorter postoperative time to diet and hospital stay.

Outcome of minimally-invasive versus open pancreatectomies for solid pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas: A 2:1 matched case-control study

Backgrounds/Aims

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPPN) is typically seen in young healthy females who would likely benefit from minimally-invasive pancreatectomy (MIP). A few comparative studies have suggested that MIP is associated with favorable outcomes when compared to the open approach for SPPN. This study aims to mitigate potential selection bias by performing a matched case-control study comparing MIP vs open pancreatectomy (OP) for SPPN.

Methods

We performed a single-institution retrospective electronic chart review of all patients who underwent surgery for pathologically confirmed SPPN between 2000 and 2017. A 2:1 matched comparison using age, gender, tumor size and the type of pancreatectomy was performed between OP and MIP.

Results

A total of 40 patients with a median age of 40.3 years (range 16.5-64.4) and female sex predominance (n=34, 85.0%) underwent surgery during the study period. Nine patients underwent MIP. Matched comparison between 18 OP and 9 MIP demonstrated that MIP was associated with a longer median operating time (305 vs 180 min, p=0.046) and shorter median postoperative stay (6 vs 9 days, p=0.015). There were no significant differences in intraoperative blood loss, blood transfusion requirements, postoperative morbidity (including postoperative pancreatic fistula) and mortality, resection margins, lymph node yield and long-term survival.

Conclusions

MIP is a safe and viable option in the management of SPPN with the benefit of a shorter postoperative length of stay at the expense of a longer operation time. There was no significant difference in oncologic outcomes between both groups of patients.

Management of solid pseudopapillary neoplasms of pancreas: A single center experience of 243 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas (SPN) is a rare neoplasm, which mainly affects young women. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinicopathological features and surgical management of SPNs in our institution.

METHODS

Patients who underwent surgery for a pathologically confirmed SPN in our institution between January 2008 and October 2018 were collected. Their clinical characteristics and survival associations were analyzed.

RESULTS

In total, 243 pathologically confirmed patients were analyzed in this study, including 181(74.5%)females and 62(25.5%) males. The mean age was 35.3 years old (range: 12-64 years old) with average tumor size of 4.83 cm (range: 0.8-16 cm). 239 patients underwent complete surgical resection. After median follow-up of 46 months (range: 10-118 months), four patients died due to tumor progression. All the other people were absent of local recurrence or distant metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

SPN is a latent malignant tumor with excellent prognosis. Surgical resection is recommended even in the presence of liver metastasis. If possible, function-preserving surgery is advocated. High Ki67 index may predict the malignant potential and poor prognosis of SPNs.

Natural History and Treatment Trends in Pancreatic Cancer Subtypes

BACKGROUND

While pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is the most common form of pancreatic cancer, many other histologic forms of pancreatic cancer are also recognized. These histologic variants portray unique characteristics in terms of patient demographics, tumor behavior, survival, and responsiveness to treatments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent surgical resection of the pancreas for non-metastatic, invasive pancreatic cancer between 2004 and 2014 were selected from the National Cancer Data Base and categorized by histologic variant according to WHO classification guidelines. Patient demographics, tumor variables, treatment characteristics, and survival were compared between histologic groups and subgroups.

RESULTS

A total of 57,804 patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria and were grouped into eight major histologic categories. Survival analysis by the histologic group showed median overall survival of 20.2 months for ductal adenocarcinoma, 20.5 months for squamous cell carcinoma, 26.8 months for mixed acinar-neuroendocrine carcinomas, 52.6 months for cystic mucinous neoplasms with an associated invasive carcinoma, 67.5 months for acinar cell carcinoma, and 69.3 months for mesenchymal tumors. Median survival was not reached for neuroendocrine tumors and solid-pseudopapillary neoplasms, with 5-year overall survival rates of 84% and 97% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Rare subtypes of pancreatic cancer present unique clinicopathologic characteristics and display distinct tumor biologies. This study presents data on demographic, prognostic, treatment, and survival outcomes between rare forms of pancreatic neoplasms in order to aid understanding of the natural history and behavior of these neoplasms, with the hope of serving as a reference in clinical decision-making and ability to provide accurate prognostic information to patients.

Spleen Preservation in Laparoscopic Distal Pancreatectomy for Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasm is Oncologically Safe

Purpose

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) has been widely performed for solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) involving the body or tail of the pancreas. However, it has not been established whether spleen preservation in LDP is oncologically safe for the treatment of SPN with malignant potential. In this study, we compared the short- and long-term outcomes between patients with SPN who underwent laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) vs laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (LDPS).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 46 patients with SPN who underwent LDP between January 2005 and November 2016. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to spleen preservation: the LSPDP group (n=32) and the LDPS group (n=14). Clinicopathologic characteristics and perioperative outcomes were compared between groups.

Results

There were no significant differences in pathologic variables, including tumor size, tumor location, node status, angiolymphatic invasion, or perineural invasion between groups. Median operating time was significantly longer in the LSPDP group vs the LDPS group (243 vs 172 minutes; p=0.006). Estimated intraoperative blood loss was also significantly greater in the LSPDP group (310 vs 167 ml; p=0.063). There were no significant differences in incidence of postoperative complications (≥ Clavien-Dindo class IIIa) or pancreatic fistula between groups. After a median follow-up of 35 months (range, 3~153 months), there was no recurrence or disease-specific mortality in either group.

Conclusion

The results show that LSPDP is an oncologically safe procedure for SPN involving the body or tail of the pancreas.

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas showing marked distal atrophy: A case report

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Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm with marked parenchymal atrophy of the distal pancreas.

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No acinar cells were observed, indicating exocrine dysfunction of atrophic parenchyma.

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The vestige of main pancreatic duct was observed in the distal atrophic pancreas.

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Central pancreatectomy without anastomosis of distal side of pancreas was performed.

Introduction

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas is a rare neoplasm, affecting primarily young females. Because SPNs are of low-malignancy, they rarely obstruct the main pancreatic duct (MPD) and cause atrophy of the distal pancreas even if their tumor sizes are large.

Presentation of case

A 35-year-old female was referred to our hospital due to pancreatic tumor. Imaging findings showed the presence of well-defined round tumor in the body of the pancreas with 25-mm in diameter. The pancreas parenchyma distal to the tumor was markedly atrophic, and MPD dilatation was not observed. The lesion was diagnosed as SPN by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA), and central pancreatectomy was performed. Intraoperative frozen section of the distal atrophic pancreas showed no evidence of acinar cells, indicating exocrine dysfunction. Therefore, we closed distal pancreas stump instead of reconstruction. In the distal atrophic parenchyma, scattered foci of islets of Langerhans and the vestige of dilated MPD were observed. She has shown neither endocrine nor exocrine insufficiency after surgery.

Discussion

SPNs are usually found without atrophic change of distal pancreas. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of SPN in which exocrine dysfunction of atrophic pancreas was demonstrated pathologically and central pancreatectomy without anastomosis of distal pancreas was chosen for the surgical treatment.

Conclusion

We reported a very rare case of SPN with marked distal parenchymal atrophy. We successfully performed central pancreatectomy without reconstruction.

Prognostic value of progesterone receptor in solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas: evaluation of a pooled case series

Background

The role of progesterone receptor (PR) has been reported in a series of pancreatic cysts. However, the relationship between PR and prognosis of solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas (SPNP) has not been elucidated so far. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prognostic value of PR in SPNP.

Methods

A total of 76 patients with SPNP treated in our institution from January 2012 to December 2017 were included. Demographic parameters, laboratory data, pathologic information and clinical outcomes were analyzed by the use of survival analysis. In addition, a pooled case series was performed to evaluate the results.

Results

The institutional data included 76 patients (17 male and 59 female) ranging from 8 to 90 years (median, 30 years) in age. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis confirmed negative PR result was significantly associated with poorer disease-free survival (DFS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) (both P < 0.001). In the pooled analysis, a total of 62 studies comprising 214 patients with SPNP were included. After multivariable cox analysis, negative PR result remained an independent prognostic factor for SPNP (DFS HR: 14.50, 95% CI: 1.98–106.05, P = 0.008; DSS HR: 9.15, 95% CI: 1.89–44.17, P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Our results indicated the role of PR in predicting adverse outcome of patients with SPNP and negative PR result may serve as a potential prognostic factor.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12876-018-0914-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Clinical update on the management of pseudopapillary tumor of pancreas

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) is a rare tumor with malignant potential which is generally located in the tail of pancreas. The prevalence of SPN has increased with widespread use of cross sectional imaging. SPN is often misdiagnosed due to nonspecific clinical presentation and accurate diagnosis is essential for optimal management. Endoscopic ultrasound-FNA with immunohistochemistry can help in preoperative diagnosis. Surgery is the treatment of choice and a successful R0 resection is curative. Overall, SPN has a good prognosis. This review article focuses on pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of SPN.

Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor of the Pancreas: An Unusual Cause of Abdominal Pain

Solid-pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas is a rare tumor that accounts for less than one percent of pancreatic tumors. The diagnosis could be challenging as SPN tend to manifest with nonspecific abdominal symptoms, variable radiological features, and inconsistent morphology. The cellular origin of SPN is unclear and might involve ductal, acinar and endocrine stem cells. 

We report a rare case of a 27-year-old female who presented with intermittent abdominal pain for two years, associated with a decrease in appetite. Her medical history was significant for abdominoplasty five years ago. Vital signs were stable. Physical examination revealed mild epigastric tenderness. Laboratory tests were unremarkable. Contrast computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen showed a 2 x 2 cm indeterminate pancreatic tail lesion. An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) disclosed a 2.1 x 1.8 cm hypoechoic mass in the tail of the pancreas.Trans-gastric fine needle aspiration was obtained to show clusters of uniform neoplastic cells with abundant cytoplasm and oval bean-shaped nuclei. Immunohistochemical stains were positive for beta-catenin, Vimentin, CD10, CD56, cytokeratin-7 (Ck7), Cyclin D1, and negative for chromogranin, epithelial-cadherin (E cadherin) which was consistent with a pseudopapillary tumor. The patient underwent a robotic assisted en-bloc distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy. There were no intra-abdominal metastases.

SPN is a rare tumor characterized by a specific immunohistological pattern which makes it highly distinct from other pancreatic neoplasms particularly neuroendocrine tumors, acinar carcinomas, and carcinoids. It is important to differentiate SPN from other pancreatic neoplasms because it is characterized as low potential for malignancy and a favorable prognosis after resection, with a five-year survival rate approaching 85%-95%.

Radical resection and enucleation in Chinese adolescents with pancreatic tumors: A 15-year case series

Pancreatic tumors rarely occur in adolescents, and the appropriateness of radical resection for these patients remains controversial.Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for patients younger than 19 years who underwent radical resection or limited resection (enucleation) between 2000 and 2015. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, operative details, growth, and survival were analyzed.During the study period, 11 adolescents (mean age, 16.18 years; standard deviation, 1.99; interquartile range, 15.0-18.0) underwent radical resection (n = 7) or enucleation (n = 4) to treat solid pseudopapillary tumors (n = 5), pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (n = 5), or pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (n = 1). None of the 7 patients who underwent radical resection experienced recurrence or serious complications, while 3 of 4 patients who underwent enucleation experienced recurrence (P = 0.02). Recurrence-free survival was slightly longer in patients who underwent radical resection, and this procedure did not appear to affect adolescent growth and development.Radical resection might be safe and effective for adolescents with pancreatic tumors.

Sonographic Detection of Solid Pseudopapillary Epithelial Neoplasm

Solid pseudopapillary epithelial neoplasms are a rare form of exocrine pancreatic tumors. While most of these neoplasms are benign, small percentages are malignant. Complete resection is associated with long-term survival, even in the presence of metastatic disease. This case study presents a solid pseudopapillary epithelial neoplasm arising from the pancreatic tail. The pancreatic neoplasm was initially detected as an incidental finding sonographically and then further investigated by magnetic resonance imaging. This case highlights the importance of documenting incidental findings during sonography and how the combination of multiple imaging modalities provided an accurate diagnosis that led to proper treatment.

Clinical outcomes for 14 consecutive patients with solid pseudopapillary neoplasms who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy

INTRODUCTION

The postoperative results of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy for solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas (SPN), including the effects of spleen-preserving resection, are still to be elucidated.

METHODS

Of the 139 patients who underwent laparoscopic pancreatectomy for non-cancerous tumors, 14 consecutive patients (average age, 29.6 years; 1 man, 13 women) with solitary SPN who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy between March 2004 and June 2015 were enrolled. The tumors had a mean diameter of 4.8 cm. Laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy was performed in eight patients (spleen-preserving group), including two cases involving pancreatic tail preservation, and laparoscopic spleno-distal pancreatectomy was performed in six patients (standard resection group).

RESULTS

The median operating time was 317 min, and the median blood loss was 50 mL. Postoperatively, grade B pancreatic fistulas appeared in two patients (14.3%) but resolved with conservative treatment. No patients had postoperative complications, other than pancreatic fistulas, or required reoperation. The median postoperative hospital stay was 11 days, and the postoperative mortality was zero.None of the patients had positive surgical margins or lymph nodes with metastasis. The median follow-up period did not significantly differ between the two groups (20 vs 39 months, P = 0.1368). All of the patients are alive and free from recurrent tumors without major late-phase complications.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy might be a suitable treatment for patients with SPN. A spleen-preserving operation is preferable for younger patients with SPN, and this study demonstrated the non-inferiority of the procedure compared to spleno-distal pancreatectomy.

Less Aggressive Surgical Procedure for Treatment of Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor: Limited Experience from a Single Institute

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical characteristics and radiological features of solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) and assess surgical therapy strategy.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed in 62 patients pathologically confirmed of SPT treated between 2003 and 2014. The clinical features, radiological examinations and surgical strategies were analyzed.

Results

56 females and 6 males were included in this study, mean age was 26 years old (range: 8–66 years old) with mean size of the tumor was 7.2 cm (range: 3–15 cm), and most tumor were commonly located in the head of pancreas (n = 29). Among all the cases, 3 patients had liver metastasis and underwent resection of SPT and liver metastasis. Furthermore, we performed 29 cases of local tumor excision; other patients underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy, middle pancreatectomy, middle pancreatectomy with splenectomy, distal pancreatectomy with spleen preservation, distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy and duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection. No patient suffered from lymph node metastases. After median follow-up of 46 months (range: 2–135 months), no mortality or local recurrence or distant metastasis was found.

Conclusions

Solid pseudopapillary tumor is a latent malignant tumor with excellent prognosis. If feasible, less aggressive resection without regular lymphadenectomy is recommended for treatment of patients with SPT.

Comparing the performance of visual estimation and standard uptake value of F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography for detecting malignancy in pancreatic tumors other than invasive ductal carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

The utility of FDG PET/CT for the detection and evaluation of invasive ductal carcinoma has been widely reported, but a few studies have assessed the utility of FDG PET/CT to detect malignancy in a variety of pancreatic lesions other than invasive ductal carcinoma.

PURPOSE

To compare the diagnostic performance of visual estimation with the semi-quantitative scores of FDG PET/CT for detecting malignancy in a variety of pancreatic lesions other than invasive ductal carcinoma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Images of pathologically proven pancreatic lesions from 32 patients were retrospectively evaluated: 14 benign lesions, 7 borderline (low malignant) lesions, and 11 malignant lesions. The average scores from visual estimation by the two observers were compared to two semi-quantitative analyses of FDG uptake in the lesions, namely the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) and mean standardized uptake value (SUVmean).

RESULTS

Visual analysis value, SUVmax and SUVmean were 0.33 ± 0.21, 1.8 ± 0.7 and 1.5 ± 0.7 for the benign lesions, 0.70 ± 0.28, 5.0 ± 2.6 and 3.1±1.7 for the borderline lesions, and 0.73 ± 0.18, 4.7 ± 2.5 and 3.2 ± 1.6 for the malignant lesions, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed the areas under the curves for detecting non-benign (malignant or borderline) lesions through visual analysis, SUVmax, and SUVmean were 0.914, 0.954, and 0.875, respectively.

CONCLUSION

For a variety of pancreatic lesions other than invasive ductal carcinoma, visual analysis and semi-quantitative analyses all showed strong diagnostic performance. However, semi-quantitative analysis with SUVmax proved to be the most effective method for detecting non-benign pancreatic lesions.

A pancreatic pseudopapillary tumor enucleated curatively

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Pancreatic pseudopapillary tumor is an rarely problem.

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Tumor may be more aggressive at males relatively to females.

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Complete resection is the main treatment option for these tumors.

Introduction

Pseudopapillary tumors (PPT) of the pancreas are very rare, comprising 0.3–2.7% of all pancreatic tumors, and they occur mostly in young women. Generally, they are benign, but in rare cases they can enlarge, invade adjacent organs, and metastasize distantly. Radiological assessments and biochemical markers are important for diagnosing tumor characteristics. The main treatment is tumor resection.

Presentation of case

An 18-year-old female was referred to our department suffering from abdominal discomfort and upper quadrant abdominal pain. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed a 6- × 5-cm mass between the pancreatic head and right adrenal gland (Fig. 1). The histological assessment was a solid PPT of the pancreas with intact surgical borders.

Discussion

PPT are very rare, comprising approximately 5% of cystic pancreatic tumors and ∼1% of exocrine pancreatic neoplasms and present mainly during the second and third decades of life. PPTs are usually indolent tumors. As such, they tend to produce vague nonspecific symptoms or may be detected incidentally on imaging. Complete surgical resection (R0) is the most effective therapy for PPT.

Conclusion

Although PPT is a very rare, benign tumor, it has the potential to metastasize to adjacent and distant organs. Consequently, they should be detected early, so that they can be treated surgically before malignant conversion.

Beger procedure in a 20-year-old female with solid pseudopapillary tumour of the pancreas

Solid pseudopapillary tumour is a rare indolent neoplasm of the pancreas (< 2% of exocrine pancreatic tumours), which predominantly affects young women at reproductive age, without significant clinical symptoms.

We report a case of a 20-year-old Caucasian female who presented with upper abdominal pain of one-year duration. Ultrasound scans of the abdomen demonstrated enlarged pancreatic head and body containing a poorly separated mass (52 × 41 × 36 mm) with a multi-cystic component 20–24 mm in diameter. Laboratory tests including, tumour markers levels, were normal. She underwent complete resection of the tumour using a Beger procedure. By immunohistochemistry, the case stained strongly for CD10 and CD56 and was negative for cytokeratin-7 (CK-7), synaptophysin and chromogranin A. The proliferation index (Ki-67) was < 1%. The patient is being followed-up and remains healthy.

Clinical Features and Management of Pancreatic Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor

Solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) is a rare pancreatic tumor with low malignant potential. Between February 2006 and May 2013, six patients were affected by SPT. Two patients were male and four were female. Median age of the patients was 31.5 years (range, 13 to 47 years). One patient was preoperatively diagnosed by an endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed in two and distal pancreatectomy was done in four. One operation of those was laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. In this series, recurrence or distant metastasis was not reported and successful outcome was achieved in all patients. In conclusion, whereas diagnosis of SPT is difficult, it can be diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy preoperatively. It should be treated by surgery, and laparoscopic operation can be considered.

Epidemiological characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of solid pseudopaillary neoplasm of the pancreas in China in the past 20 years

AIM: To review the epidemiological characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of solid pseudopaillary neoplasm of the pancreas (SPN) in the past 20 years.

METHODS: The reports about SPN were serached, and the information relevant to epidemiological features, diagnosis and treatment of SPN, as well as the clinical data were retrieved and analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS: A total of 3688 patients with SPN were reported in China from January 1995 to April 2014. The ratio of males to females was approximately 1:6.65; the average age was 30.11 years. About 39.59% of the patients were distributed in east China. The patients with symptoms accounted for approximately 74.73%; 3.23% of the patients were reported with jaundice. Tumor markers were negative in nearly all the patients. About 29.42% of the patients were diagnosed as SPN prior to surgery. The tumors were observed frequently in the head and neck (40.22%), the body and tail (58.98%) of the pancreas. The main treatment for SPN was surgery, including enucleation (41.12%), pancreatoduodenectomy (23.41%) and distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy (34.23%). The positive rates of vimentin, α1-antitrypsin (α1-AT) and α1-antichymotrypsin (α1-ACT) in tumor cells were 92.25%, 90.81% and 87.06%, respectively. Postoperative recurrence developed in 175 cases; 17 cases died of SPN.

CONCLUSION: SPN occurs predominantly in young females and is more prevalent in east China. SPN lacks specific symptoms or signs, has diverse imaging manifestations, and can be easily misdiagnosed. Definite diagnosis in most patients relies on pathology and immunohistochemistry. SPN is a neoplasm of low malignant potential. Surgical procedure is the main effective treatment with good prognosis.

Is EUS-FNA of solid-pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas as a preoperative procedure really necessary and free of acceptable risks?

BACKGROUND

Solid-pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPNs) of the pancreas are infrequent tumors since, as of 2014, only 2744 patients have been described. Its rarity, unclear histogenesis, pleomorphic aspect on radiology (cystic, solid or mixed) and unpredictable biological behavior with an insidious high-grade malignant potential make SPN difficult to recognize preoperatively even in its target patient population which is predominantly composed of young women (about 87% of cases).

METHODS

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) showed to improve the preoperative diagnostic yield for this tumor and obviate the risks formerly given by percutaneous biopsy.

RESULTS

In light of our experience, such a procedure could not be so innocuous as generally acknowledged.

CONCLUSION

We report the first case of rupture of pancreatic SPN following EUS-FNA and entertain both the actual and potential complications ensuing from this type of mishap.

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas: a report of two cases

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas are uncommon, accounting for only 1-2% of all pancreatic neoplasms. These tumors are being detected at an increased rate, probably due to the increased awareness and the liberal use of imaging. We report two cases of patients with solid pseudopapillary pancreatic tumors and review the existing literature.

Solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas in children: surgical intervention strategies based on pathological findings

PURPOSE

The appropriate surgical intervention strategies for solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) of the pancreas in children are still controversial. The aim of this study was to establish surgical intervention strategies based on the pathological findings.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent surgery for SPT between January 1994 and April 2013.

RESULTS

Five patients with SPT were identified. Tumors were located in the pancreatic head (n = 1), body (n = 2) and tail (n = 2). One patient showed spleen, liver and lung metastases. All five patients underwent pancreatectomy. Enucleation was not performed. One patient with metastases underwent partial hepatectomy. Four tumors had infiltration into the adjacent pancreatic parenchyma. The main pancreatic duct was incorporated into the tumor capsule wall in two patients. Surgical margins were negative in all patients without metastases. The median follow-up period was 37.8 months (range 7-74 months). One patient with metastases died at 60 months after surgery. All other patients were alive and showed no evidence of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Radical resection with negative margins should be performed for SPT. From the perspective of curability, we suggest that pancreatectomy is the first choice for SPT in children.

Preoperative diagnosis and surgical management for solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas

BACKGROUND

Preoperative diagnosis of solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas (SPN) remains difficult and optimal surgical management for SPN has yet to be fully defined.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was undertaken of all 10 patients (six women, four men) who underwent surgery for SPN between 2001 and 2013.

RESULTS

Mean age was 26 years (range, 16-33 years) for women, and 50 years (range, 35-76 years) for men. Although large SPN showed typical imaging findings, small SPN (≤ 3.0 cm) appears as almost entirely solid tumors. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) was performed in six patients with atypical findings of SPN for differentiation from other pancreatic neoplasms. Definitive preoperative cytological diagnosis was achieved in all patients who underwent EUS-FNA. All 10 patients underwent surgical exploration. One patient with portal vein invasion and multiple lung metastases underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy combined with portal vein resection and reconstruction, followed by two pulmonary resections. This patient remains alive as of 34 months after the initial operation.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration is useful for definitive preoperative diagnosis of SPN. As long-term survival after surgical resection can be achieved even in patients with locally advanced and metastatic SPN, aggressive surgical resection should be performed.

Comparison of F-18-FDG PET/CT findings between pancreatic solid pseudopapillary tumor and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Pancreatic solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) is a rare benign tumor. Little data are available on positron emission tomographic/computed tomographic (PET/CT) characteristics of this tumor. Therefore, we analyzed the metabolic characteristics of SPT using F-18-FDG PET/CT and compared the results with those of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 11 SPT patients and 46 patients with ductal adenocarcinoma. Ten SPT patients had primary tumors and 1 patient had metastatic SPT. Maximum standardized uptake value (max SUV), mean SUV, metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and tumor-to-background ratio (TBR) were evaluated. Mann-Whitney U test between pancreatic SPT and ductal adenocarcinoma was performed. In addition, age, gender and tumor size-adjusted analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was done between pancreatic SPT and ductal adenocarcinoma.

RESULTS

Compared with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, SPTs had significantly higher tumor size-adjusted MTV and TLG. MTV and TLG values were significantly correlated with T-stage of the SPTs. In 1 SPT patient, metastases in the liver and mesentery were revealed by intense uptake of FDG on F-18-FDG PET/CT, and after PET/CT had suggested the presence of pancreatic SPT.

CONCLUSION

We recommend that SPT be considered when a solid pancreatic mass with increased FDG metabolism is encountered on PET/CT. F-18-FDG PET/CT may be useful in detecting subtle metastases of SPT.

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas: a case report with review of the diagnostic dilemmas and tumor behavior

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas is a rare tumor of the pancreas often detected initially on imaging. Of uncertain histogenesis, it has a low-grade malignant potential with excellent post-surgical curative rates and rare metastasis. Despite advances in imaging, pseudocysts and other cystic neoplasms feature in the differential diagnosis. Pathological and/or cytological evaluation remains the gold standard in reaching a definitive diagnosis. On morphology alone, other primary pancreatic tumors and metastatic tumors pose a diagnostic challenge. Recent advances in immunohistochemical characterization have made the histopathologic diagnosis more specific and, in turn, shed light on the likely histogenesis of this rare tumor. We report a case of solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas that was suspected on radiology and diagnosed intraoperatively on imprint cytology guiding definitive surgery. The diagnostic dilemmas are reviewed.

Management of Metastatic Solid Pseudopapillary Cancer of the Pancreas: A Case Report

Solid pseudopapillary tumors (SPT) of the pancreas are rare neoplasms predominantly found in females. The tumors are often histologically benign and patient outcomes are correspondingly favorable. This report presents the case of a 21-year-old woman who presented with metachronous metastatic SPT, and details the diagnosis and management of this patient. The patient underwent a distal pancreatectomy for resection of the primary neoplasm with negative margins. A surveillance ultrasound performed at 43 months post-operatively revealed new hepatic lesions; these lesions were surgically resected and pathologically demonstrated to be metastatic SPT of the pancreas. This case report demonstrates the potential for latent metastasis of resected SPT, imaging characteristics of metastatic disease, the need for surveillance of patients following resection of SPT of the pancreas and a review of relevant literature on SPT.

Diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts and cystic tumors based on own material and quoted literature

Pseudocysts constitute the most basic cystic lesions of the pancreas. Symptomatic cysts may be treated by means of both minimally invasive methods and surgery. Currently, it is believed that approximately 5% of cystic lesions in the pancreas may in fact, be neoplastic cystic tumors. Their presence is manifested by generally irregular multilocular structures, solid nodules inside the cyst or in the pancreatic duct, frequently vascularized, as well as fragmentary thickening of the cystic wall or septation.

Solid-pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas: case series and literature review on an enigmatic entity

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas is a rare tumor which typically affects young women without significant clinical symptoms. SPN usually shows an indolent behavior and only rare cases recur and/or metastasize after complete resection. We report our experience with four cases of SPN of the pancreas. All four patients were female with an age range of 15-42 years (mean age: 24.5 years). Two patients presented with abdominal pain, one with abdominal mass and one with acute abdominal signs following blunt trauma. Tumor's size ranged from 1 to 16 cm (mean size: 5.5 cm). Two tumors were diagnosed preoperatively through percutaneous core needle biopsy and two underwent surgery without preoperative diagnosis because of high suspicion of SPN based on clinical and radiological findings. By immunohistochemistry, all cases stained strongly for vimentin, progesterone-receptor and beta-catenin (nuclear) and variably with pankeratin and neuroendocrine markers. The proliferation index (Ki-67) was <2% in all cases. After a median follow-up of 40 months (range: 24-57 months), all patients were alive with no evidence of recurrence or metastatic disease. In conclusion, SPN of the pancreas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any solid and partly cystic pancreatic or upper abdominal mass, particularly in young females. SPN possesses a low malignant potential and complete surgical resection with clear margins is the treatment of choice. Following R0 resection, SPN has an excellent prognosis.

Role of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy for solid pseudopapillary tumor

BACKGROUND

Since the first case report regarding laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (DP) for solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT), few additional articles have been published. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and long-term outcome of the laparoscopic DP based on a series of adult SPT patients.

METHODS

In a single-center study, we screened all adult patients undergoing a laparoscopic DP for SPT. Preoperative, operative, and postoperative data were retrospectively analysed and compared to the results of open DP for SPT published in the medical literature.

RESULTS

From April 2000 to June 2010, 5 adult female patients (median age 34 y) underwent a laparoscopic DP for an SPT. No conversion to open surgery was required. The median size of the tumor was 45 mm. The postoperative mortality rate was 0%, and serious complications (Dindo IV) occurred in 2 patients. The postoperative quality of life was not significantly altered by the laparoscopic procedure. At a median follow-up of 60 mo, all patients were alive and without evidence of local recurrence, distant metastasis, diabetes, or exocrine insufficiency.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopy may offer an alternative to open surgery in the treatment of SPT of the distal pancreas in adult female patients. The laparoscopic procedure impacts neither the oncologic outcome nor the quality of life. However, due to the risk of postoperative complications, this procedure should be reserved for specialized centers.

A case of spontaneous ruptured solid pseudopapillary tumor of pancreas resected by laparoscopic surgery

Solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) is an uncommon neoplasm of the pancreas. A rare case of spontaneous rupture of SPT is reported. A 13-year-old female felt acute abdominal pain without blunt abdominal trauma. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a tumor in the pancreas tail with fluid collection around it. The tumor was diagnosed as SPT with hemoperitoneum associated with spontaneous rupture. The bleeding was stopped conservatively and she was referred for surgery at three months after the rupture. At that time, CT revealed a tumor 4 cm in diameter, which protruded from pancreas tail without distant metastases. Since peritoneal dissemination was not seen on intraoperative exploration, laparoscopic enucleation was performed. Pathologically, the tumor was diagnosed as SPT with rupture of the capsule of tumor, and complete resection was confirmed. The patient has been followed up for two years, and she is alive without recurrence.

A Case of Spontaneous Ruptured Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor of Pancreas Resected by Laparoscopic Surgery

Solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) is an uncommon neoplasm of the pancreas. A rare case of spontaneous rupture of SPT is reported. A 13-year-old female felt acute abdominal pain without blunt abdominal trauma. Enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed a tumor in the pancreas tail with fluid collection around it. The tumor was diagnosed as SPT with hemoperitoneum associated with spontaneous rupture. The bleeding was stopped conservatively and she was referred for surgery at three months after the rupture. At that time, CT revealed a tumor 4 cm in diameter, which protruded from pancreas tail without distant metastases. Since peritoneal dissemination was not seen on intraoperative exploration, laparoscopic enucleation was performed. Pathologically, the tumor was diagnosed as SPT with rupture of the capsule of tumor, and complete resection was confirmed. The patient has been followed up for two years, and she is alive without recurrence.

Clinicopathologic characteristics and surgical treatment of solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) of the pancreas is a very rare neoplasm of low malignant potential that mostly affects young women. The aim of the present study is to report our experience in surgical treatment of SPT and review of the literature.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective review of three cases of SPT who were treated at our department during the last two years was performed. The clinicopathologic characteristics, surgical treatment, and prognosis are described in detail.

RESULTS

Case 1 described an asymptomatic SPT in a pregnant woman. To the best of our knowledge, only one case of SPT in pregnancy has been reported in the literature. Case 2 described an SPT in the pancreatic tail causing splenic infarction, and a distal pancreatectomy combined with splenectomy was performed. Case 3 described an SPT in the pancreatic head, for which a pancreatoduodenectomy was successfully performed. All of the three patients were followed up for 10-22 months without recurrence or metastases after the initial surgery at the time of reporting.

CONCLUSIONS

At present, radical resection is the treatment of choice for SPT. Enucleation can be performed for tumors with complete amicula. Distal pancreatectomy combined with or without splenectomy can be performed for pancreatic body and/or tail tumor, and pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic head tumor. The prognosis of SPT is good.