Fascioliasis: an exceptional cause of acute pancreatitis.

Background: Fasciola hepatica is known to cause bile duct inflammation and biliary obstruction but is rarely reported as responsible for producing acute pancreatitis.

Methods: We report on a patient complaining of acute pancreatitis. Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography showed distinct features and sphincterotomy allowed extraction of multiple parasites.

Conclusions: Pancreatitis may occur in some patients with fascioliasis, but the condition may be overlooked in chronic cases. Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography rule out other possible causes of irregularity and thickening of the common bile duct wall. Parasite removal during endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography is one therapeutic option. Hepatic involvement must be ruled out and complete pharmacological treatment is advised in this patient.