PANCREATIC TUBERCULOSIS MIMICKING PANCREATIC CANCER: CASE REPORT.

Abstract

Background: Pancreatic tuberculosis is rare. The clinical presentation is vague, and the radiological examination can mimic pancreatic cancer. However, ultrasound- or CT-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology or biopsy is essential for confirming the diagnosis. Bacteriological examination can also be used. Laparotomy may be performed if other investigations are inconclusive. Case presentation: We report the case of pancreatic tuberculosis in a 44 years old female patient who has undergone a cephalic duodeno-pancreatectomy since the clinical and radiological features were highly suggestive of malignancy. Conclusion: Our work highlights the importance of preoperative diagnosis of this treatable disease, in order to avoid unnecessary heavy surgery.