CASE REPORT
Fever of unknown origin as a possible sign of malignancy? - Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of the pancreas in a teenager: Case report with literature review
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Surgical Oncology Clinic, The Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Cracow, Poland
Submission date: 2025-04-25
Final revision date: 2025-09-02
Acceptance date: 2025-09-03
Online publication date: 2026-05-12
Publication date: 2026-05-12
Corresponding author
Julia Krupa-Zabiegała
Surgical Oncology Clinic, The Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Garncarska 11, 31-115, Cracow, Poland
Pol. Ann. Med. 2026;33:97-102
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ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) of the pancreas is an exceedingly rare tumor, accounting for 0.2% to 2.7% of all pancreatic neoplasms, predominantly affecting young females.
Aim:
The aim of this study is to highlight a rare presentation of SPN as persistent fever of unknown origin (FUO) without other significant symptoms, emphasizing the need to include pancreatic neoplasms in FUO differential diagnosis.
Case study:
An 18-year-old female presented with persistent FUO without other significant symptoms. Initial laboratory tests were largely unremarkable except for mild anemia. Imaging studies revealed a well-defined mass in the tail of the pancreas measuring 5 × 5 × 6 cm. An ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy suggested SPN, characterized by monomorphic cells with minimal atypia and a specific immunophenotype. The patient underwent a distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of SPN (pT3 pN0 LVI− PNI+), with clear surgical margins and no lymph node involvement. The postoperative course was uneventful, and follow-up examinations showed no signs of recurrence.
Results and discussion:
This case underscores the importance of considering pancreatic neoplasms in the differential diagnosis of FUO, even in young patients. Early detection and surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Conclusions:
SPN is a rare low-grade malignant tumor with good prognosis following surgical resection. Increased clinical awareness of its atypical presentations is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment.
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