Gallbladder Cancer in a Patient with Anomalous Union of the Pancreaticobiliary Duct: A Case Report
10.15279/kpba.2026.31.1.24
- Author:
Jeongwoo KIM
1
;
Kyo-Sang YOO
;
Kyoung A KO
;
Hyeongseok LEE
;
Dong Kyu LEE
;
Jiwoong JANG
;
Sung Hee JUNG
Author Information
1. Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Daejeon Eulji Medical Center, Eulji University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
- Publication Type:Case Report
- From:Korean Journal of Pancreas and Biliary Tract
2026;31(1):24-29
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Anomalous union of the pancreaticobiliary duct (AUPBD) is a congenital malformation in which the pancreatic and biliary ducts join outside the duodenal wall, forming an elongated common channel. Because sphincter action does not directly affect this junction, reciprocal reflux of pancreatic juice and bile occurs, increasing the risk of biliary tract cancer. AUPBD is frequently associated with choledochal cysts and is a known risk factor for biliary malignancies. We report a case of a 70-year-old woman diagnosed with gallbladder cancer with liver metastases, accompanied by AUPBD without choledochal cysts. She presented with upper abdominal pain, obstructive jaundice, and a large hepatic mass on imaging. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography confirmed pancreatobiliary-type AUPBD. Despite biliary drainage, her condition rapidly deteriorated and she died soon after. This case underscores the role of AUPBD in carcinogenesis and the need for early recognition and management.
