Groove pancreatitis presenting with upper gastrointestinal obstruction and abnormal renal function: A case report and literature review

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare type of chronic pancreatitis characterized by fibrotic lesions localized to the groove between the pancreatic head, duodenum, and common bile duct. We present a case of a 59‑year‑old male alcoholic with vomiting and renal dysfunction found to have duodenal obstruction and low‑density pancreatic head lesions on computed tomography concerning for GP. The patient underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and pathology confirmed the diagnosis postoperatively. The patient recovered well without complications or relapse at follow‑up. Although rare, GP should be included in the differential for pancreatic head masses in middle‑aged alcoholics and surgical resection may be necessary for symptom relief and exclusion of malignancy.