Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2017 | Case report
Spontaneous rupture of the common hepatic duct associated with acute pancreatitis: a case report
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2017
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Background
Rupture of the common bile duct is a life-threatening condition, usually observed after a trauma or in association with choledocholithiasis or an obstructive tumor of the bile duct. However, a spontaneous rupture of the common bile duct is a rare entity.
Case presentation
We report a new observation of a spontaneous rupture of the common bile duct, associated with biliary peritonitis and pancreatitis, in a 15-year-old North African girl. Etiological aspects, specificities of clinical presentation, means of diagnosis, as well as surgical and perioperative management are discussed.
Conclusions
The diagnosis of spontaneous rupture of the common bile duct is a challenge for both radiologist and surgeon. Beyond the difficulty of diagnosis, which requires radiological exploration, management of the subsequent biliary peritonitis involves urgent surgery, life-supporting measures, and close monitoring.