What can be detected by pancreatic ultrasound

An ultrasound examination of the pancreas will reveal the size of the pancreas, the shape of the pancreas, and the echogenicity in and around the pancreas, as well as the condition of the gallbladder and bile duct. In the case of pancreatitis, an ultrasound can reveal pancreatic enlargement and abnormalities in the intrapancreatic and peripancreatic echogenicity. If pancreatic abscesses and pseudocysts are present in the later stages, it has a confirmatory diagnosis. However, in the early stages of pancreatitis, patients often show significant abdominal distention, which can affect the visualization. Therefore, the diagnosis of pancreatitis will be combined with venous blood tests such as venous blood amylase, C-reactive protein, routine blood tests, blood calcium, and blood glucose. Patients with pancreatitis also need to do CT examination of the upper abdomen, which can assist in clear diagnosis.