Cystic dystrophy of heterotopic pancreas (CDHP) is a rare condition. T
he cystic tissue is virtually always located in the duodenal wall, cau
sing digestive tract obstruction and pain. Six cases in young males (m
ean age 40 years) managed since 1989 are reported. The diagnosis was e
stablished by computed tomography and/or endoscopic ultrasonography. A
ll six patients underwent resection of the lesion, which required ceph
alic pancreatectomy in five cases. There were no death. The symptoms r
esolved in five patients; one alcoholic patient, had persistent pain.
The diagnosis of CDHP can always be established preoperatively. Surgic
al excision is the best treatment.