Solid Pseudopapillary Neoplasm of the Uncinate Process of the Pancreas: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) is a rare pancreatic neoplasm that accounts for 1-3% of all pancreatic tumors. SPNs are most commonly found in females in their third and fourth decades of life. Even though the majority of the tumors are benign, malignant tumors have also been reported. Given its rare occurrence, it remains a clinical dilemma in gastroenterology, oncology, and pathology. It is critical to diagnose it early and differentiate it from other similar pancreatic tumors or cysts to ensure favorable patient outcomes. Advanced imaging techniques, characteristic histologic findings, and immunohistochemical analysis can help in diagnosing solid pseudopapillary tumors. Early diagnosis and surgical resection can result in a cure in most cases, and tumor recurrence is extremely rare. In this report, we present a case of a 40-year-old female patient who presented to the emergency room and was diagnosed with SPN of the pancreas.

Solid pseudopapillary epithelial neoplasm of pancreas in pregnancy: A case report and review of literature

“…In the literature, this tumor has been referred to by different names including the Gruber-Frantz tumor, pancreatic pseudopapillary tumor, papillary cystic neoplasm of the pancreas, and SPEN. The incidence of SPEN is higher among African American and Asian females, and it is rare in children [ 3 , 4 ].…”

“…SPEN generally carries a favorable prognosis, with an overall five-year survival rate of around 95%–97%. Even in cases demonstrating aggressive behavior, these tumors tend to have a positive prognosis and a long-life expectancy [ 3 , 4 ].…”

“…The clinical manifestations of pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas may vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. In the early stages, small tumors may not present noticeable signs and symptoms and are often incidentally detected during investigations for unrelated conditions [ 2 , 3 ]. In males, these tumors tend to manifest at an older age and demonstrate a more aggressive clinical course.…”

“…Commonly employed imaging modalities for diagnosis include abdominal ultrasound, contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) of the abdomen, or abdominal MRI. In cases of pregnancy, abdominal MRI is the preferred imaging modality [ 3 - 5 ].…”

“…It predominantly affects young females of non-Caucasian ethnicity, with the highest incidence occurring within the second and third decades of life. The female-to-male ratio for SPEN is approximately 9:1 [ 3 ].…”