Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis producing common bile duct and pancreatic duct obstruction

Abstract

Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare finding usually confined to the retroperitoneal space. Symptoms caused by this fibrotic process are usually secondary to compression and constriction of local anatomic structures. The ureters are the most common site of involvement, although the biliary tree, duodenum, and vasculature may also be affected. This case report describes a patient with retroperitoneal fibrosis involving the pancreas and common bile duct, and whose clinical course and investigative results stimulated cancer of the pancreas.