Acute idiopathic pancreatitis in pregnancy: A case study

Abstract

Acute pancreatitis during pregnancy is a rare event, and can be associated with high maternal mortality and fetal loss. Gallstone disease is thought to be the most common causative factor of acute pancreatitis, but, in many cases, the cause remains unclear. We report a case of a 36-year-old woman at 35 wk of gestation, who presented with severe pain confined to the upper abdomen and radiating to the back. The patient was diagnosed with acute idiopathic pancreatitis, which was managed conservatively; she recovered within several days and then delivered a healthy baby. Therefore it is important to consider acute pancreatitis when a pregnant woman presents with upper abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting in order to improve fetal and maternal outcomes for patients with acute pancreatitis.

A Rare Case of Acute Idiopathic Pancreatitis in Third Trimester Which Aggravated in Early Postpartum Period

“…The pathogenesis of AP in pregnancy is similar to that in the general population but due to rare incidence, the relationship between pregnancy and pancreatitis remains unclear. According to several studies, gallstones are the most common cause of AP during pregnancy responsible for more than 70% of cases [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]. The association of AP with gallstones in pregnancy and puerperium is most likely due to the known alterations in bile composition, gallbladder contractility and sludge formation that occur during and after pregnancy [1][2][3].…”

“…Other etiological factors for AP include alcohol abuse (10% of cases), familial hypertriglyceridemic-induced pancreatitis (5%) and idiopathic pancreatitis (15%). Rarely, hyperparathyroidism, connective tissue diseases, abdominal surgery, infections or iatrogenic sources such as diuretics, antibiotics and antihypertensive drugs are reported [1][2][3][4]6,8,9].…”

Acute Pancreatitis in Pregnancy: Maternal and Fetal Outcomes

“…Prompt diagnosis and treatment reduces maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. 8 Ultrasound is the imaging technique of choice for pregnant women because it can distinguish a normal appearing pancreas from one, i.e., enlarged, and it can also identify gallstones. In addition, ultrasound is safer than computed tomography (CT) scan during pregnancy.…”

“…Abdominal ultrasound, CT, endoscopic ultrasound, and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) are available for diagnosing a biliary etiology for acute pancreatitis. 8 Diagnostic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is to be avoided whenever possible, owing to the associated risks including bleeding, perforation, and fetal radiation, while abdominal ultrasound, MRCP, and EUS do not carry these risks.…”

Acute Pancreatitis in Pregnancy: A Case Report

“…Older studies reported high perinatal mortality due to premature delivery. 4 Recent advances in diagnostic imaging and availability of neonatal intensive care facilities has resulted in improved maternal and neonatal outcome. We report a case of acute pancreatitis in labour and discuss its aetiology, diagnosis and management.…”