Ectopic pancreas in the ileum: An unusual condition and our experience

BACKGROUND: Ectopic pancreas in the ileum, including lesions within Meckel diverticulum, can cause severe manifestations and complications; yet, it was seldom reported in English literature. AIM: This study aimed to raise awareness and provide information for better clinical management of this rare yet serious condition. METHODS: A total of 1713 cases of small bowel resection were performed in our hospital between 2009 and 2018, among which 10 cases of ileac ectopic pancreas were identified. A comprehensive retrospective review of the 10 cases was taken. RESULTS: Five lesions were located in the ileum wall and 5 were within Meckel diverticulum. Two lesions within Meckel diverticulum were incidental; the remaining 8 lesions were all associated with abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, and anemia. Of the 5 patients with lesions in the ileum wall, computed tomography uniformly revealed ileoileal intussusceptions with masses as lead points. Capsule endoscopies were performed in 6 cases, of which 3 showed positive findings. Double-balloon enteroscopy was conducted in one case and revealed an ileal diverticulum. Therapeutically, the offending bowel segments were removed, and intussusceptions were restored except for one case in which diverticulectomy was applied. No relapse or sequela was observed in the follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Ileac ectopic pancreas can be seen in the ileum wall or Meckel diverticulum. The majority of the lesions found in clinical practice present with abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, and anemia. Lesions in the ileum wall often cause ileoileal intussusception. Computed tomography, capsule endoscopy, and double-balloon enteroscopy are helpful preoperative examinations. Segmental small bowel resection is the treatment of choice.