Gray-scale sonographic assessment of pancreatitis in children.

A total of 144 gray-scale sonograms were obtained in 110 children to evaluate the pancreas. The entire gland was adequately visualized in just over 86% of cases. The size, contour, echo pattern, and echo intensity were assessed. Either diffuse or focal enlargement of the pancreas was the most consistent finding in the 25 children with pancreatitis. In contrast to previous reports, decreased echo intensity was not a reliable indicator of inflammation. Numerous complications were detected on the 54 sonograms of these 25 patients. These complications included pseudocysts, lesser sac fluid collections, ascites, biliary obstruction, and hemorrhage. It is recommended that ultrasound be the initial imaging procedure in the evaluation of children with suspected pancreatic disease, and that it be used in conjunction with clinical and biochemical data.