Hemosuccus Pancreaticus: Challenging Diagnosis and Treatment

Hemosuccus pancreaticus (HP) is defined as bleeding from the ampulla of Vater through the pancreatic duct. It is a rare complication associated with acute or chronic pancreatitis. The source of bleeding can be from the pancreas itself or surrounding vessels, with the splenic artery most commonly involved. Diagnosing HP is challenging and computed tomography angiography remains the gold standard for diagnosis. We present the case of a 62-year-old male with recurrent pancreatitis complicated with HP. Imaging and endoscopy were consistent with bleeding from the section portion of the duodenum, which resolved without intervention. LEARNING POINTS: Hemosuccus pancreaticus is a rare complication associated with acute or chronic pancreatitis. CT angiography is the gold standard for diagnosing hemosuccus pancreaticus. Arterial embolization is the first-line treatment of hemosuccus pancreaticus.