Korean J Gastroenterol.  2001 Oct;38(4):296-299.

Two Cases of Afferent Loop Syndrome Accompanying Acute Pancreatitis

• Park SJ
• Kang HH
• Park IG
• Seo DD
• Song HK
• Lee CG
• Ko EH
• Park JS
• Seo DW
• Lee SK
• Kim MH

Abstract

Afferent loop syndrome (ALS) accompanying acute pancreatitis is characterized by abdominal pain, vomiting and elevation of serum amylase. Thus, it is difficult to differentiate ALS from other causes of acute pancreatitis. However, the history of gastrectomy can be an important clue for diagnosing ALS. We experienced two cases of ALS accompanying acute pancreatitis. The laboratory findings of the patients showed elevation of serum amylase and they were initially diagnosed as only acute pancreatitis. However, the diagnosis were modified as ALS with the aid of computed tomography. After appropriate management, the abdominal pain disappeared and serum amylase level decreased. In conclusion, ALS should be considered as a cause of acute pancreatitis in patients who have the elevated level of serum amylase and a history of gastrectomy.

Keyword

Afferent loop syndrome; Acute pancreatitis; Gastrectomy

MeSH Terms

Abdominal Pain
Afferent Loop Syndrome*
Amylases
Diagnosis
Gastrectomy
Humans
Pancreatitis*
Vomiting
Amylases