Extrapancreatic manifestations in autoimmune pancreatitis

Minerva Gastroenterol Dietol. 2009 Mar;55(1):41-51.

Abstract

It is increasingly recognized that organs beyond the pancreas may be clinically involved in patients with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP). Other gastrointestinal sites (such as the extrapancreatic biliary tree, liver, and ampulla) appear particularly affected, but involvement of many other organs (including kidneys, lungs, retroperitoneum, and brain) is increasingly reported. A similar histological lesion, characterized by an IgG4-positive lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate, affects both the pancreas and extrapancreatic tissues, strongly suggesting an aetiopathogenic link. In this review we discuss the clinical presentation and disease course, diagnostic features, and management of extrapancreatic involvement in AIP.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmune Diseases / complications*
  • Bile Duct Diseases / diagnosis
  • Bile Duct Diseases / etiology
  • Bile Duct Diseases / therapy
  • Humans
  • Pancreatitis / complications*