PANCREATITIS

Abdomen and Pelvis CT scans are very common and are performed routinely. The indications for these exams vary, and commonly start as abdominal pain or renal/flank pain. Many patients who have abdominal pain are diagnosed with pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas where the gland may swell and digestion can be dramatically altered, causing the normal function of the pancreas to stop. Pancreatitis can cause damage to surrounding tissues or the gland itself. This disorder can be labeled as acute or chronic. Acute pancreatitis can be painful, however the pancreas can regain normal function. Chronic pancreatitis can be persistent, making the patient very sick, and permanent damage to the pancreas is usually associated. Thousands of people are diagnosed with pancreatitis every year and it can affect people of any age. Pancreatitis is usually diagnosed or followed-up with an abdominal CT, with oral and IV contrast (60 sec. delay at 3-4 ml/sec.). This protocol can vary for each patient or ordering doctor. This CT image is of a male in his 70's who is diagnosed with acute pancreatitis.