Pancreatitis

Diagnostic Evaluation

Pancreatitis causes inflammation that can lead to vomiting, abdominal pain, and systemic derangements. Imaging helps support diagnosis and rule out other abdominal causes. Ultrasound is often first-line, allowing detection of pancreatic enlargement, peripancreatic fat changes, and effusions, especially in dogs. CT can better evaluate pancreatic necrosis, complications, and diffuse abdominal disease. Radiographs are nonspecific but may show ileus or effusion. MRI is less commonly used. Nuclear imaging is mainly research/limited settings.