Pancreaticopleural fistula (PPF) is a rare complication of pancreatitis that requires a high index of clinical suspicion as patients typically present with pulmonary symptoms related to the pleural effusion rather than pancreatitis. Diagnosis is made by detection of amylase in the pleural fluid. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography can aid in visualizing the fistula. We present a case of massive left pleural effusion secondary to a PPF due to acute on chronic pancreatitis.
Keywords: pancreaticopleural fistula; pancreatitis; pleural effusion.