The diagnosis and management of solid pseudopapillary epithelial neoplasm of the pancreas in a resource-limited setting: two cases from Cameroon

Abstract

Solid pseudopapillary epithelial neoplasm (SPEN) of the pancreas is a rare tumor of low malignant potential that occurs most often in young females. Imaging and histopathology are necessary to confirm the diagnosis as most have no symptoms. Lack of access to these technologies in sub-Saharan Africa contributes to the difficulty in making an early and accurate diagnosis, and hence, impedes treatment. We present two cases of SPEN of the pancreas in young female patients at a rural, teaching hospital in Cameroon. The diagnosis was made only with histopathology. Computed tomography scan with intravenous contrast was essential to planning a safe surgical resection. Both patients had complete surgical resection with good results.