Interpretation of Drain Amylase After Esophagectomy: A Case of Pancreatitis Mimicking Anastomotic Leak
Abstract
Elevated pleural amylase is widely used as a sensitive, noninvasive screen for anastomotic leak after esophagectomy. We describe a 71-year-old man with mild rise in pleural amylase on postoperative day 7 despite a normal esophagram and clinical status. Elevated serum amylase and lipase confirmed acute pancreatitis as the source, rather than an anastomotic complication. Serum and drain amylase levels normalized with supportive care. This case demonstrates that modest elevations in pleural drain amylase, although highly useful for early leak detection, may occasionally represent false positives from alternative processes such as pancreatitis, underscoring the importance of an evaluation for nonanastomotic causes.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Esophageal Cancer Research and Treatment
Esophageal and GI Pathology
Pancreatitis Pathology and Treatment
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Annals of Thoracic Surgery Short Reports
- Volume
- 4
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 1004–1006
- Publication date
- 5 March 2026
- Language
- EN