Haemosuccus pancreaticus: diagnostic and therapeutic challenges

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding in a patient with a history of chronic pancreatitis could be caused by HP. Diagnosis is based on investigations that should be performed in all patients, preferably during a period of active bleeding. These include upper digestive endoscopy, contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) and selective arteriography of the coeliac trunk and superior mesenteric artery. Contrast-enhanced CT had a high positive yield comparable with that of selective angiography in our series. Therapeutic options consist of selective embolization and surgery. Endovascular treatment can control unstable haemodynamics and can be sufficient in some cases. However, in patients with persistent unstable haemodynamics, recurrent bleeding or failed embolization, surgery is required.