Giant splenic artery pseudoaneurysm: A masquerader of pancreatic pseudocyst

Abstract

Splenic artery pseudoaneurysms are a rare complication of pancreatitis and occurs due to erosion and weakening of the vessel wall by enzyme rich peri-pancreatic fluid by the cells or contained within an adjacent pseudocyst. Although pseudoaneurysm rupture associated with pancreatitis is very rare, it has a high mortality rate of up to 40%. Therefore, it is necessary to have a sufficient knowledge of this catastrophic complication to make prompt diagnosis and treatment, that is critical in the management of pseudoaneurysms.