Frantz's tumor of the pancreas

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The solid-cystic tumor of the pancreas is rare, and had several names, including "papillary cystic tumor," "solid cystic tumor," "solid and papillary epithelial neoplasm." About 90% of cases are found in young women, measuring between seven and 20 cm in diameter, with 40% of them in the head, tail 32% and 28% in the body. CASE REPORT: Woman of 29 years was admitted for investigation of strong and persistent pain in right hypochondrium. It was performed ultrasonography and abdominal computed tomography, showing lobulated mass with the consistency of soft parts in the tail of the pancreas, peripheral capsular enhancement and hypovascular center measuring 5.5x5,5x5,0 cm. MRI better defined, with intermediate signal on T1 and T2, small scattered foci of low signal on T2 and peripheral enhancement by gadolinium, suggesting tumor Frantz. She underwent parcial pancreatectomy and total splenectomy. Macroscopic and microscopic findings suggested, and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Should be considered this tumor in the differential diagnosis of abdominal masses in young women.