Introduction:
Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) is a rare pancreatic tumor. Most patients are female within the second or third decade of life with only a small minority concerning children. Frequently described as low malignant potential tumors, surgical resection remains the main treatment.
Presentation of case:
The authors present a case of a SPN diagnosed in a 17-year-old Caucasian girl with vomiting and abdominal pain localized to the right upper quadrant. CT scans and MRI scans showed the presence of a well-defined tumor arising from the pancreatic head with 14cm of greater diameter. Pylorus-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy was performed and histopathology confirmed a SPN with complete resection and no evidence of malignancy.
Discussion:
SPN are usually found incidentally hence the importance of an accurate radiologic diagnosis. Symptoms may be present such as abdominal pain or vomiting due to compression, namely in large tumors. A surgical approach is usually indicated aiming complete resection, with tumor size not predicting resectability.
Conclusion:
Solid pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas are extremely rare and usually have an excellent long-term prognosis after surgical resection.