Pancreatic Carcinosarcoma: A Case Report Highlighting CT Characteristics

Publication date: Available online 27 January 2017
Source:Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology
Author(s): Steven Mszyco, Leslie Teng, Joseph Annunziata, Matthew S. Hartman
Primary pancreatic carcinosarcoma is a rare and malignant neoplasm arising within the pancreas. With fewer than a dozen cases ever reported, the recognition and treatment of this rare phenomenon can be difficult. We describe the case of an 85-year-old man who presented with vague RUQ and epigastric abdominal pain and was found to have a pancreatic mass on ultrasound and computed tomography. The patient underwent open pancreaticoduodenectomy and was found to have pancreatic carcinosarcoma on microscopic evaluation. While specific radiologic diagnosis of this entity is not possible, bringing the possibility of primary pancreatic carcinosarcoma to the ordering clinician′s attention has the potential to hasten treatment and improve patient outcomes. We review the current literature on this rare type of neoplasia, considering histopathological and clinical features. This case highlights the importance of radiologist awareness of this rare neoplasm and to consider carcinosarcoma in the differential when presented with a mixed solid and cystic pancreatic mass.



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