Work

Ulcerative pancreatic panniculitis complicated by secondary infection and delayed wound healing in a patient undergoing haemodialysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Pancreatic panniculitis is a rare cutaneous manifestation of pancreatic disease. Case description: A 75-year-old man on maintenance haemodialysis with a history of IgG4-related autoimmune pancreatitis presented with painful subcutaneous nodules on the lower extremities and a purulent leg ulcer. Elevated pancreatic enzyme levels and imaging findings suggested an exacerbation of chronic pancreatitis. Histopathological examination of a skin biopsy revealed lobular panniculitis with fat necrosis and ghost-like adipocytes, confirming the diagnosis of pancreatic panniculitis. Subcutaneous nodules regressed with conservative treatment for pancreatitis; however, the ulcer became secondarily infected and showed delayed wound healing. Discussion: In patients undergoing haemodialysis, susceptibility to infection and impaired wound healing may complicate the course of ulcerative pancreatic panniculitis. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of early recognition of pancreatic panniculitis because secondary infection and delayed wound healing may complicate its clinical course in patients receiving maintenance haemodialysis. LEARNING POINTS: Pancreatic panniculitis should be considered in patients with painful subcutaneous nodules, even in the absence of abdominal symptoms.Histopathological examination is essential for the diagnosis of pancreatic panniculitis.Ulcerative pancreatic panniculitis may be complicated by secondary infection and delayed wound healing in patients undergoing maintenance haemodialysis.

Source: European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine

DOI: 10.12890/2026_007426