Isolated Pancreatic Metastasis From Rectal Cancer Mimicking Primary Pancreatic Malignancy

We present the 18F-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). 18F-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.