Pancreatitis overview
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Pancreatitis Main Page |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas.
Classification
There are different forms of pancreatitis, which are different in causes and symptoms, and require different treatment.
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Severe upper abdominal pain, with radiation through to the back, is the hallmark of pancreatitis. Nausea and vomiting (emesis) are prominent symptoms.
CT
Although ultrasound imaging and CT scanning of the abdomen can be used to confirm the diagnosis of pancreatitis, neither is usually necessary as a primary diagnostic modality[1] . In addition, CT contrast may exacerbate pancreatitis,[2] although this is disputed.[3]
Ultrasound
Although ultrasound imaging and CT scanning of the abdomen can be used to confirm the diagnosis of pancreatitis, neither is usually necessary as a primary diagnostic modality[1]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Fleszler F, Friedenberg F, Krevsky B, Friedel D, Braitman L (2003). "Abdominal computed tomography prolongs length of stay and is frequently unnecessary in the evaluation of acute pancreatitis". Am J Med Sci. 325 (5): 251–5. PMID 12792243.
- ↑ McMenamin D, Gates L (1996). "A retrospective analysis of the effect of contrast-enhanced CT on the outcome of acute pancreatitis". Am J Gastroenterol. 91 (7): 1384–7. PMID 8678000.
- ↑ Hwang T, Chang K, Ho Y (2000). "Contrast-enhanced dynamic computed tomography does not aggravate the clinical severity of patients with severe acute pancreatitis: reevaluation of the effect of intravenous contrast medium on the severity of acute pancreatitis". Arch Surg. 135 (3): 287–90. PMID 10722029.