Learning objectives
To review the common and uncommon pancreatic anomalies in the paediatric population.
To discuss the imaging technique of choice and the differential diagnosis in each case.
To illustrate key radiological findings which may provide a correct diagnosis.
Background
The pancreatic gland is subject to a wide variety of disorders in children.
We present a pictorial review of the common and uncommon pancreatic anomalies in the paediatric population.
Diagnostic imaging plays an important role in the assessment of these entities,
which often require a multimodality imaging approach.
Ultrasonography(US),
magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) and computed tomography(CT) may depict characteristic radiological findings,
which enable the correct diagnosis and the prompt treatment.
Findings and procedure details
1)Normal pancreas and embriology Fig. 1
Pancreas grows exponentially the first year of life,
with a pancreatic head more prominent than the body and pancreatic duct (1,5-2mm) in children.
2)Imaging techniques
Sonography (US) is a primary screening tool to evaluate the paediatric pancreas,
due to its multiple advantages as absence of ionizing radiation,
the ability to image without sedation,
and real-time evaluation.
MRI in combination with MRCP is a powerful tool for imaging of the pancreatic duct,
and biliary system in the paediatric population.
Low-dose...
Conclusion
Radiologists play an important role in the assessment of the pancreas in children.
Awareness of the common and uncommon pancreatic anomalies and their characteristic imaging features are essential to make a correct diagnosis and to provide an adequate treatment.
References
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Computed tomography for pancreatic injuries in paediatric blunt abdominal trauma.World journal of gastrointestinal surgery,4(7),
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Ultrasound of congenital and inherited disorders of the paediatric hepatobiliary system,
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Ectopic pancreas as the cause of gastric outlet obstruction in a...