Isolated Pancreatic Metastasis From Rectal Cancer Mimicking Primary Pancreatic Malignancy.

Zhang, Zeyu; Zuo, Changjing; Zhou, Xia; Meng, Hongyu; Cheng, Chao · Clin Nucl Med · 2026

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

We present the 18 F-FDG PET/CT findings of pancreatic metastasis in a 60-year-old man with a history of rectal cancer, who presented with abdominal discomfort and elevated carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). 18 F-FDG PET/CT revealed a hypermetabolic pancreatic nodule with ductal dilation. Histopathology confirmed metastatic intestinal-origin adenocarcinoma. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge in differentiating metastasis from primary pancreatic cancer, particularly given the uncommon presentation of solitary pancreatic metastasis and its atypical imaging features. A comprehensive evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis.

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