Chemotherapy of pancreatic solid pseudopapillary carcinoma – A case report and a literature review

Abstract

Introduction

Solid pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas are rare neoplasms of low malignant potential that affect mostly young women. With a free-margin surgical resection, the prognosis is usually excellent; however, in some cases, curative surgery cannot be performed due to the extent of the tumor mass and metastatic spread. Optimal therapeutic option in such cases remains elusive.

Case presentation

We analyze a case of a 36-year-old female patient treated with chemotherapy due to advanced stage of solid pseudopapillary tumors. Among a number of administered chemotherapeutic regimens – Folfox-4 (folinic acid+fluorouracil+oxaliplatin) gave particularly good results and was well tolerated, with few adverse effects. Partial response was achieved and significant improvement in the patient's life quality was reported.

Discussion

Solid pseudopapillary tumors of the pancreas present slow growth pattern and an excellent prognosis in most cases. Different approaches are needed for patients with multiple, unresectable metastases and oxaliplatin based chemotherapy should be considered as effective and safe therapeutic option.

Conclusion

The absence of proper guidelines for unresectable SPTs and second-line chemotherapy for gemcitabine-refractory patients with metastatic pancreatic pseudopapillary tumors emphasizes the importance of seizing new therapeutic options.