Idiopathic recurrent acute pancreatitis in the context of pancreas divisum: A case report

Recurrent acute pancreatitis is characterized by frequent episodes of inflammation in the pancreas. The most common causes are alcohol abuse and gallstones but approximately 30% of cases are defined as idiopathic because initial evaluation fails to detect the etiology. In these patients, extensive laboratory and imaging evaluations usually lead to the uncovering of an occult biliary duct stone or sphincter of Oddi dysfunction as the main reason for frequent pancreatitis. We report a 42-year-old female with a longstanding history of acute recurrent pancreatitis in the setting of pancreas divisum due to its rarity. We focus on appropriate investigations by application of specialized laboratory and radiological modalities because determining the etiology is a crucial step in patient management.