Learning objectives
Systematize Atlanta classification nomenclature that allow reliable classification of acute pancreatitis
Learn the adequate timings to perform CT evaluation/re-evaluation to obtain the best morphologic information
Review imaging features of the most common local complications of acute pancreatitis
Background
Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory disease of the pancreas with variable involvement of local tissues and distant organs.
Clinically it can manifest as a transient local abdominal discomfort or it may present with irreversible systemic complications and,
eventually,
death.
Gallstones and alcohol are the most common causes of AP.
Obesity and older age are known risk factors for AP.
The incidence of AP is increasing worldwide,
probably due to the rising incidence of gallstones and obesity.
Acute pancreatitis diagnosis requires two of three...
Findings and procedure details
Cases of acute pancreatitis of the author’s clinical practice were collected.
The CT examinations were reviewed to look for the different mattering radiological features of AP according to AC.
Acute pancreatitis is considered to begin in 1stday of pain,
and not the day on which the patient looks for medical evaluation.
The revised Atlanta Classification stratifies acute pancreatitis into two morphologic types based on imaging findings: interstitial edematous pancreatitis (IEP) and necrotizing pancreatitis.
Interstitial edematous pancreatitis is more common and represents nonnecrotizing inflammation of the...
Conclusion
The revised Atlanta classification provides a common lexicon for AP among physicians,
promoting better clinical communication and management of patients.
Since radiologic imaging has become increasingly important in staging and treating AP,
it’s of utmost importance for radiologist to be familiarized and comfortable with this classification.
References
Foster BR,
Jensen KK, Bakis G,
et al.
Revised Atlanta Classification for Acute Pancreatitis: A Pictorial Essay.
RadioGraphics 2016; 36(3): 675–687
Zhao K,
Adam SZ,
Keswani RN,
et al.
Acute Pancreatitis: Revised Atlanta Classification and the Role of Cross-Sectional Imaging.
AJR 2015; 205:W32–W41
Thoeni RF.
The Revised Atlanta Classification of Acute Pancreatitis: It’s Importance for the Radiologist and Its Effect on Treatment.
Radiology 2012; 262(3): 751 – 764
Bollen TL.
Imaging of Acute Pancreatitis: Update of the Revised Atlanta Classification.
Radiologic Clinics of North America...