A case report of Pancreatico Pleural Fistula presenting as recurrent right pleural effusion

Pancreaticopleural Fistula (PPF) is a rare complication seen approximately in 0.4% of patients with chronic pancreatitis. There occurs an abnormal communication, known as fi stula, between the pancreatic duct and the pleural space, due to the leakage or rupture of a pancreatic pseudocyst or disruption of pancreatic Duct (PD). The drainage of pancreatic secretions into the pleura causes amylase rich pleural effusion subsequently in these patients [1]. In comparison to the pleural effusions seen in pancreatitis that are clinically insignifi cant, a PPF produces recurrent, large volume effusions. Owing to its low incidence, it is rarely considered as a cause of pleural effusion.