Suspected pancreatitis

Ultrasound can be used effectively when there is: typical abdominal pain; increased amylase and lipase with high clinical certainty of diagnosis; <48–72 hours after onset of symptoms.

Otherwise CT or MRI probably most useful to examine for complications, extent of pancreatic damage or other causes. In general, acute pancreatitis workup probably does not need full multiphase pancreatic CT. Oral contrast not usually needed.