Type:
Educational Exhibit
Keywords:
Inflammation, Diagnostic procedure, CT, Pancreas, Abdomen
Authors:
R. M. Antunes, P. G. M. G. Ferreira; Lisbon/PT
DOI:
10.1594/ecr2018/C-3003
Background
Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory process of the pancreas that classically presents with abdominal pain and elevated serum pancreatic enzymes.
It is a common cause of hospital admission with an annual incidence of 13-45 cases per 100000 persons [1].
Most cases are mild and resolve within the first week with adequate treatment.
However,
some patients progress to organ failure and/or local complications,
in which cases the mortality can range to 30% [1].
Imaging plays an important role in the management of patients with AP,
especially in severe AP and the use of a standardized nomenclature is crucial.
The Atlanta Classification of 1992 [2] provided a set of terms describing the various features of AP.
However,
current knowledge of pathophysiology,
new advances in imaging and treatment options required an update.
This was accomplished in 2012,
with the publishing of the Revised Atlanta Classification [3].
New concepts were added,
while some confusing terms were abandoned and a special focus were given to the various morphologic aspects of AP as seen at imaging.