Acute Pancreatitis as a First Presentation of Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a rare necrotizing antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis characterized by inflammation in small-sized arteries. Gastrointestinal involvement is exceedingly rare in GPA. Here, we present a case of recurrent acute pancreatitis as the initial presentation of GPA. The diagnosis was made based on radiological and pathological findings of acute pancreatitis in conjunction with positive anti-PR3 antibody which is strongly associated with GPA. Systemic vasculitides are rare but important to consider in cases of idiopathic acute pancreatitis. Early diagnosis and therapy allow for high rates of remission and improved survival rates.

Automated summary

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a rare form of vasculitis characterized by inflammation in small-sized arteries and gastrointestinal involvement is extremely rare. This case report presents a patient with recurrent acute pancreatitis as the initial symptom of GPA. Diagnosis was based on radiological and pathological findings of acute pancreatitis combined with positive anti-PR3 antibody, which is strongly associated with GPA. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for achieving remission and improving survival rates in systemic vasculitides.