Intrapancreatic Accessory Spleen Diagnosed As Neuroendocrine Tumor: The Dangers of False Positives and Their Implications in Subsequent Management

Abstract

This case serves as a reminder to consider ectopic splenic tissue in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic masses. The literature shows a lack of awareness and overtreatment of this condition due to clinical and radiologic concern for malignancy, namely neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) identified on positron emission tomography (PET)-CT NETSPOT. Given the vast difference in management and prognosis of ectopic splenic anomalies and malignant neoplasms involving the pancreas, accurate diagnosis is imperative to avoid unnecessary invasive procedures such as Whipple or distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy, which are associated with increased morbidity and mortality.