A Case of Non-alcoholic Chronic Pancreatitis Showing Characteristic Imaging Features

Song, Kee Sup; Na, Sang Kyu; Chung, Jun Pyo; Park, Young Nyun; Yu, Jeong Sik; Yoon, Dong Sup; Choi, Byeong Kee; Lee, Se Joon; Song, Si Young; Lee, Kwan Sik; Chung, Jae Bock; Lee, Sang In; Kang, Jin Kyung

Abstract

Differentiation between chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer is often difficult. Some special types of chronic pancreatitis such as 'non-alcoholic duct-destructive chronic pancreatitis' and 'chronic pancreatitis with diffuse irregular narrowing of the main pancreatic duct' seem to be pancreatic cancer, but show imaging features characterized by the absence of parenchymal atrophy, significant ductal dilatation proximal to the site of stenosis, and the absence of extrapancreatic spread. Recognition of these special types of chronic pancreatitis prior to a definite treatment is important to avoid an unnecessary pancreatic resection. Recently, we experienced a case of non- alcoholic chronic pancreatitis in a 80-year-old man presenting with obstructive jaundice. His radiologic features were similar to those of non-alcoholic duct-destructive chronic pancreatitis. Recognition of this special type of chronic pancreatitis prior to a definitive treatment enabled us to manage this patient optimally.