Influenza-induced Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Encephalopathy: A Rare Clinical Presentation

Abstract

Instances of the H1N1 influenza virus contributing to acute pancreatitis (AP) are indeed rare. Similarly, pancreatic encephalopathy (PE) represents an unusual complication of AP that is often underdiagnosed and unreported. Here, we present a unique case involving influenza-induced pancreatitis and subsequent PE in a middle-aged female who initially presented with acute shortness of breath, complaints of abdominal pain, and altered sensorium. A nasopharyngeal reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for influenza A confirmed the infection with H1N1. Ultrasonography of the abdomen and contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed features indicative of AP. Due to the altered sensorium, a noncontrast computed tomography (NCCT) of the brain was conducted, yielding normal results. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis also returned normal results. With a regimen of conservative management for pancreatitis and treatment with oseltamivir, the patient experienced improvement in both shortness of breath and sensorium. This case underscores the unusual manifestation of influenza-related complications and emphasizes the significance of a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and management.