Lipomatous pseudohypertrophy of pancreas with chronic calcific pancreatitis presenting with nutritional dermatosis and type 3c diabetes.
Sudipta Mohakud, Harsh Agarwal, Biswanath Behera et al.
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Case in brief
A woman in her early 50s presented with erythema, scaling of the limbs, weight loss, anasarca, and chronic foul-smelling diarrhea, indicative of nutritional dermatosis due to malabsorption. Imaging revealed a diffusely enlarged fatty pancreas with a dilated main pancreatic duct and intraductal calculi, consistent with lipomatous pseudohypertrophy and chronic calcific pancreatitis. She developed sepsis and ultimately died from refractory septic shock.
What made this case unusual
The case highlights the distinct presentation of lipomatous pseudohypertrophy, characterized by an enlarged pancreatic volume, which differentiates it from typical fatty replacement seen in older or obese patients.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider lipomatous pseudohypertrophy in patients with unexplained pancreatic enlargement and associated complications, as it can mimic other forms of pancreatic disease.
Why it matters
Understanding the unique features of lipomatous pseudohypertrophy can aid in accurate diagnosis and management, particularly in cases presenting with atypical symptoms and complications.