Radiologic Assessment of Acute and Chronic Pancreatitis

The capabilities of various imaging modalities, including CT, MRI, and ultrasound, have markedly increased over recent years. This has translated into improved detection and improved characterization of various pathologic processes. This article discusses the current role of imaging in the evaluation of acute and chronic pancreatitis. CT remains a major focal point in issues related to acute pancreatitis, whereas MRI (and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography) plays a larger role in chronic pancreatitis.