Imaging Characteristics of Mass-Forming Pancreatitis

Mass-forming pancreatitis typically presents as a mass-like lesion in the head, body, or tail of the pancreas, which often needs to be differentiated from pancreatic cancer. During the acute phase of pancreatitis, patients may experience severe abdominal pain. However, following appropriate treatment, symptoms such as pain usually subside, allowing for comparison of clinical and imaging findings before and after treatment to aid in diagnosis.

Abdominal imaging, particularly computed tomography (CT), plays a crucial role in identifying pancreatic inflammation. CT scans can reveal pancreatic edema and peripancreatic fluid collection during the acute stage, which tend to decrease or resolve after treatment. In some cases, a residual mass-like appearance may persist, mimicking a neoplastic lesion.

In contrast, pancreatic cancer typically appears as a hypodense or heterogeneous lesion on imaging. While mass-forming pancreatitis often presents as a homogenous mass in the pancreatic head, body, or tail, some cases may progress to malignancy over time. Distinguishing between chronic inflammatory masses and pancreatic cancer based solely on CT or MRI can be challenging. Therefore, a dynamic approach involving follow-up imaging and clinical evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis. Combining radiological findings with clinical history and, when necessary, histopathological analysis significantly improves diagnostic accuracy.