[Granulocyte sarcoma of the pancreas without extra-pancreatic location].

Introduction: Granulocyte sarcoma (GS), also known as chloroma, is a localized malignant tumor composed of myeloid cells, the diagnosis of which is difficult. The pancreatic location and recurrence, aside from any context of malignant hemopathy, are exceptional.

Observation: A 31-year-old woman developed an isolated and recurrent granulocyte sarcoma of the pancreas, without any context of a malignant hemopathy. The diagnosis retained on extemporaneous examination was an adenocarcinoma of the pancreas, because of the non-specific necrotic nature of the tumor. The immuno-histochemical exploration corrected the diagnosis. Despite local surgery, an isolated tumor recurred 6 months later. This relapse was treated with radiotherapy followed by heavy chemotherapy, identical to that applied in acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML). Ten months later, remission was stable and complete.

Comments: Isolated granulocyte sarcomas located in the pancreas are exceptional and have often led to initial erroneous diagnosis. Immuno-histochemical methods are essential in order to obtain correct diagnosis. Despite the localized nature of the tumor, intensive AML-type chemotherapy is necessary.