Incidental ectopic pancreas during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy

Abstract

Aim: Ectopic pancreas is a rare developmental anomaly which is detected incidentally in general. Frequently, it is an incidental finding and can be detected in various regions of gastrointestinal system. It can be readily recognized by its crater-like appearance at gastric antrum adjacent to pylori during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Here, we presented characteristics of cases with ectopic pancreas which was detected incidentally during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy performed for other reasons. Material and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed upper gastrointestinal endoscopy evaluations performed in our endoscopy unit between January 2012 and December 2015. Age, gender, endoscopy indication, endoscopic findings, and histopathological findings, if available, were recorded in all patients with ectopic pancreas. Results: Overall, 9850 patients underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy between January 2012 and December 2015; of these, findings compatible to ectopic pancreas were observed in 14 patients (0.14%). Those were 4 males (28.5%) and 10 females (71.5%). Mean age was 49 years (29-69 years) in these patients. Ectopic pancreas tissue was detected at gastric antrum of all patients. Mean size was 8.5 mm (5-15 mm) in lesions detected. Histopathological examination was performed in 9 patients (64.2%) and chronic gastritis was observed in all of these patients. Conclusion: Ectopic pancreas should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of several gastrointestinal submucosal lesions although it is rarely seen.