Pseudocyst is a common complication of Acute and chronic pancreatitis. However, its extension into the mediastinum is a rare entity. We present a case of 52 years male with acute on chronic pancreatitis (alcohol related) who presented with dysphagia and dyspnoea and was found to have a pancreatic pseudocyst extending upto the neck. Ultrasound fails to pick up mediastinal pseudocysts and requires additional imaging modalities - CT and MRI. Management of Mediastinal pseudocyst depends upon underlying etiology, ductal anatomy, size of the pseudocyst, and availability of expertise. Small pseudocysts in asymptomatic patients may resolve spontaneously, but requires prolonged conservative therapy with somatostatin or its analogue and Total Parenteral Nutrition. Ruptured pseudocyst in a symptomatic unstable patient requires surgical resection. Endoscopic ultrasound guided drainage (transmural or transpapillary) and Main Pancreatic Duct stenting are safe and effective treatment modality.
© Journal of the Association of Physicians of India 2011.